Keeping your car in good shape means keeping up with preventative maintenance of all parts. While many drivers focus on their tires, muffler and engine, the brakes and exhaust play an equally important role and should be monitored regularly. Over time, each will begin to wear out, causing your vehicle to operate less safely and efficiently than it should. To prolong the life span of your car and protect your monetary investment, it’s in your best interest to enlist routine service for your exhaust and brakes. 

3 Auto Maintenance Tips You Should Know

1. Change Brake Pads

Your vehicle’s brakes operate using friction material pressed against a rotor to smoothly stop your vehicle. While these pads are designed to last for a while, they will eventually begin to corrode, making it more difficult to come to a complete stop as quickly as before. Luckily, changing out your brake pads are easy and inexpensive. If you hear a grinding or squealing noise while you drive, bring your car to an auto maintenance expert to have them inspect the brakes and brake pads, and apply new ones if necessary. 

2. Clean the Exhaust

The exhaust in your car must be completely clean to allow the air to flow out of the front grille. While you may be tempted to take on the task yourself, always enlist professional exhaust cleaning, as the job can be dangerous for someone without proper training. A buildup of soot or debris in the pipes is not only bad for the environment, but will cause your car to heat up more quickly and produce harmful emissions.

3. Inspect Exhaust Pipes

Once you know that the exhaust pipes are clean, it’s time to ensure they are secured safely. A dangling or loose pipe poses a major risk to you as the driver, as well as others on the road. Your mechanic will lift the car and tighten and loose clamps to keep the exhaust pipe in its proper place.

If you’re due for auto maintenance in La Crosse, WI, it’s time to contact Dee’s Auto Care Specialists. Since 1936, they have provided convenient and specialized services, including muffler repair, tire alignment, brakes, and timing belt replacement. Each ASE-Certified technician is qualified to help diagnose and treat any issues you may experience with your car and will offer honest prices every time. Reach out to make an appointment online or call at (608) 782-2530.