A common goal for most vehicle owners is to extend the vehicle's life as much as possible. Lincoln owners are no different, wanting to extend the life span of their Lincoln model so that they can continue to enjoy the excellent driving experience for years to come. At Jim Burke Lincoln in Bakersfield, California, we want to share a few tips to extend the life of a Lincoln vehicle.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
The best way to extend the life of a Lincoln vehicle is through regular maintenance. All vehicles need the occasional checkup, which helps to identify worn-down parts before they fail completely. There are some Lincoln maintenance tasks that owners can do on their own, such as checking the oil level. But for many of the most important maintenance tasks, it's best to bring a Lincoln vehicle to a professional service center. Here are some of the maintenance tasks a service center can perform.
Oil Changes
Regular vehicle oil changes are paramount for maintaining engine health and overall longevity. Engine oil serves as a lubricant, preventing friction between moving parts and reducing wear. Over time, oil breaks down and accumulates contaminants, compromising its effectiveness. Routine oil changes, typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles depending on the vehicle and oil type, ensure a clean and well-lubricated engine. Neglecting this crucial maintenance task can lead to increased friction, overheating, and engine damage. Modern engines are precision engineered, and using the right oil grade is essential. Consult the owners manual for specific recommendations.
Tire Rotations
Tire rotations play a pivotal role in extending the life span and performance of a vehicle's tires. Uneven tire wear is a common issue due to variations in weight distribution and steering components. Regular rotations, typically every 6,000 to 8,000 miles, ensure that each tire wears evenly, promoting balanced handling and traction. This practice maximizes tire longevity and optimizes fuel efficiency.
Additionally, even tire wear enhances overall safety by maintaining a consistent grip on the road. Neglecting tire rotations can result in premature tire replacement and compromise vehicle stability. Prioritizing this simple yet crucial maintenance task allows for a smoother ride and gets the most out of a vehicle's tires.
Brake Inspections
Brakes are a critical component, and routine checks, ideally every 12,000 miles or as recommended in the owners manual, ensure their optimal function. Wear and tear on brake pads, discs, and fluid levels are common issues that can compromise stopping power. Timely inspections identify potential problems early, preventing costly repairs and ensuring responsive braking. Well-maintained brakes not only contribute to driving safety but also extend the life span of other brake system components. Prioritizing brake inspections safeguards the driver, passengers, and the longevity of the vehicle's braking system.
Other Common Maintenance Tasks
Beyond oil changes, brake inspections, and tire rotations, several crucial vehicle maintenance tasks contribute to overall reliability and longevity. Regular air filter replacement is vital, ensuring optimal engine performance by preventing contaminants from entering. Transmission fluid checks and changes promote smooth gear shifting and prevent transmission damage. Spark plug replacement, typically every 30,000 miles, maintains efficient combustion, enhancing fuel efficiency and engine performance. Coolant system maintenance prevents overheating and protects the engine from extreme temperatures.
Regular battery checks, cleaning terminals, and replacing worn-out batteries prevent unexpected breakdowns. Aligning and balancing the wheels improves tire wear, handling, and fuel efficiency. Checking and replacing worn-out windshield wipers ensure clear visibility during adverse weather conditions. Routine inspections of belts and hoses prevent potential failures that could lead to engine damage.
Lastly, addressing issues with the suspension system, such as shocks and struts, contributes to a smoother ride and better handling. Following a Lincoln's specific maintenance schedule as outlined in the owners manual ensures a comprehensive approach to keeping the vehicle in peak condition. These tasks collectively form a proactive strategy, preventing major issues and promoting a safer, more efficient driving experience.
Adjust Driving Habits
Adjusting driving habits can significantly extend the life of a Lincoln vehicle. Gentle acceleration and deceleration reduce stress on the engine and transmission, preventing premature wear. Avoiding abrupt stops and starts also conserves fuel, enhancing overall efficiency. Adhering to speed limits not only promotes safety but also reduces strain on the engine and contributes to better fuel economy.
Regularly changing lanes with care minimizes stress on the suspension and steering components. Smooth driving on rough roads reduces the impact on the suspension system, preventing unnecessary wear. Properly using a vehicle's brakes by coasting and anticipating stops minimizes wear on brake pads and extends their life span. Adopting these driving habits not only ensures a longer life span for a vehicle's crucial components but also contributes to improved fuel efficiency, a safer driving experience, and reduced maintenance costs over time.
Safely Store a Lincoln Vehicle
Lastly, an owner can extend the life span of a Lincoln vehicle by being more careful about where it's parked. The best location to park a Lincoln, if possible, is in a garage, as this will protect it against weather elements. If a garage isn't available, parking in shaded areas is a good compromise, as it shields the vehicle from harsh sunlight, protecting the exterior and interior alike.
Another item that can protect a Lincoln is a vehicle cover. This is a great choice when a vehicle needs to be parked outside for an extended period of time, such as throughout the winter. A cover will protect the vehicle from direct sunlight as well as from debris that blows through the wind. A car cover can also be used indoors to keep dust off the vehicle or to protect it against accidental scratches.
Extend Your Lincoln's Life by Visiting Jim Burke Lincoln
With the above suggestions, you can likely add years to your Lincoln's life span. There are many things you can do on your own to lengthen the car's life, but for those tasks that need an expert hand, turn to the service center at Jim Burke Lincoln in Bakersfield, California. Our knowledgeable team can perform all the maintenance tasks required to keep your Lincoln vehicle in great shape for a long time to come. To get started, please schedule a maintenance visit online or contact us today.
?man refilling motor oil on car engine bay by Tim Mossholder is licensed with Unsplash License