Tips to Make Your Vehicle Last in Manchester, CT

If you’re like the majority of drivers, you expect your vehicle to perform dependably, smoothly, and efficiently for as long as possible. Whether you’re driving around Manchester or driving across Connecticut, here are a few good habits that can help keep your vehicle running like new.

At Schaller Acura in Manchester, CT, we are all about helping you get the most from your Acura or any vehicle you drive. Let’s discuss the best driving practices to extend your vehicle’s lifespan and save you money on repairs down the line.

Don’t Ignore Your Owner’s Manual

We know it’s not exactly a page-turner, but your owner’s manual is your vehicle’s blueprint. It tells you:

• When to schedule maintenance.
• Type of fluids to use.
• How often to change your oil, filters, belts, and more.

Following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule is one of the easiest and most effective ways to extend your vehicle’s life.

Stay on Top of Oil Changes

Oil is your engine’s lifeblood. It lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, and helps keep the engine cool. Skipping oil changes can lead to buildup, reduced performance, or even engine failure.

At Schaller Acura, we recommend:

• Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles for synthetic oil.
• Or as specified in your Acura maintenance schedule.

Make it easy – schedule oil changes through our Acura service center in Manchester, and we’ll handle the rest.

Avoid Aggressive Driving

Flooring the gas pedal or slamming the brakes might be fun, but it’s rough on your vehicle. Aggressive driving increases:

• Brake Wear
• Engine Strain
• Transmission Wear
• Tire Wear

Smooth acceleration and gradual braking reduce stress on your vehicle’s components and help boost fuel efficiency, too.

Warm Up Your Vehicle in Winter (But Not Too Long)

Connecticut winters can be brutal. Letting your vehicle idle for a minute or two on cold mornings is okay – but long warm-ups aren’t necessary with modern engines and can waste fuel. Instead, start driving gently to let the engine warm up naturally.

Pro tip: Don’t rev the engine while it's cold. This can cause internal damage over time.

Lighten the Load

Carrying extra weight in your vehicle – such as tools, gear, or heavy items in the trunk – places excessive strain on the suspension, braking system, and fuel economy. Less weight equals less wear.

Keep Tires Properly Inflated

Under-inflated or over-inflated tires affect more than just your MPG – they also lead to uneven wear, poor handling, and added strain on your suspension system.

Check your tire pressure monthly (and before long road trips), and rotate your tires every 5,000–7,500 miles to keep things rolling smoothly.

Don’t Ignore Warning Lights

Your dashboard lights are not simply aesthetic. If your check engine light or another warning light appears, schedule an appointment for service as soon as possible. If a problem goes unchecked for too long, a minor fix could become a major repair.

Need assistance with diagnosing a warning light? Feel free to stop by Schaller Acura in Manchester, and we will scan your vehicle to provide you with the best recommended service.

Wash and Wax Regularly

Yes, this one’s about looks – but it’s also about longevity. Road salt, tree sap, pollen, and bug residue can corrode your paint and undercarriage. A clean vehicle isn’t just nicer to drive – it lasts longer.

Aim to wash your vehicle every 2–3 weeks and wax it every few months, especially in harsh winter or summer conditions.

Put Your Acura in the Skilled Hands of Schaller Acura in Manchester, CT

Establishing a good maintenance routine, coupled with smart driving decisions, is a habit that pays off. Schaller Acura is here to give you expert service, Acura Genuine Parts, and advice to keep your vehicle in its best condition.

Whether you need a quick oil change, tire service, or factory-scheduled service, our experts have you covered. Schedule your appointment on our website, or come by today.

Disclaimer: This content was drafted with AI assistance for initial drafting, reviewed by a subject-matter expert for accuracy, and edited by our team of writers and editors.