Although it would mean big savings in money and time if we didn’t have to, the reality is that we do need to replace our car parts over time. Nothing lasts forever, but it can last longer by knowing the right time to replace each component of your vehicle. This even means understanding how to tell the age of a car tire so those can be changed as well.
Below, we answer the burning questions for the right time to replace some of the most important car parts.
When Should You Replace Your Tires?
Your tires are arguably one of the most important parts of your car, as their condition and quality has a huge impact on your vehicle’s performance. How your vehicle steers, brakes, and responds, as well as your fuel efficiency, are all impacted by the tires you choose. When it comes to replacing your tires, it should be done on an as-needed basis. A good quality set of tires should last several years, but things like driving habits and local can impact a tire’s life span.
Regular inspections of your tire and their remaining tread levels and overall condition will help you determine when they need to be replaced.
When Do You Need to Replace Your Cabin Air Filter?
A cabin air filter is responsible for cleaning dust, pollen, allergens and other unwanted airborne pollutants in the air. Not only does this filter help keep everyone inside the vehicle more comfortable, but it also helps keep the inner workings of your heating and cooling system clean. Cabin air filters are typically replaced once a year, but if you are doing lots of driving in a dusty climate or on dirt roads, they might need to be replaced more often.
When Should You Replace Your Engine Air Filter?
The engine of your vehicle is constantly taking in outside air, so it is important to keep any unwanted contaminants out. This is where an engine air filter comes in. The filter will help trap any unwanted debris and dust particles from making their way into your engine. Like a cabin air filter, your engine air filter should be replaced once a year. Spring is a great time to make the replacement, as your engine air filter is likely clogged up with insects and tree debris from the summer and fall, as well as sand and salt particles from winter.
When Is the Right Time to Replace Your Car Battery?
Your vehicle’s battery is likely a part that you don’t think about often, but it performs an essential function. The battery is constantly drained by the electronics inside your vehicle, such as the engine starter and lights, but is constantly recharged while you drive. So, while your battery is always draining and recharging, like most batteries, it will eventually degrade.
The battery in your vehicle should last several years without having to worry about it, but once it begins to show signs of weakening, it is a good idea to have it replaced. Running a vehicle on a weak battery can be a headache, so it is always best to replace it as soon as it is needed.
When Do You Need to Replace Your Brake Pads and/or Rotors?
Brake pads and rotors are the components that work together using friction to stop your vehicle. Every time you press on the brake pedal these components wear slightly, so eventually, they will need to be replaced. In general, brake pads and rotors are replaced on an as-needed basis and are usually done at the same time for best results. With regular maintenance, they should be replaced every few years.
While it may be tempting to put off replacing these parts in your car to save some money, it is extremely important to take your vehicle in for regular maintenance. Not only will regular maintenance keep your vehicle running its best, but it will also help prevent serious accidents from potential part failures.