Your car is probably one of your most valuable assets. In today’s economy, you can’t afford to lose the use of a car, so it is essential that you take the necessary steps to maintain it. The good news is the simple things that can make a big difference in the long haul, don’t have to be expensive. Here are five critical car maintenance tips that will save you money year after year, and avoid those huge car repair bills:




Oil Change
Whether you own a new or old car, it is of the utmost importance that you have the motor oil changed on a regular basis. Over time, the engine oil loses its lubrication properties due to being broken down by the hot engine temperatures. Furthermore, dirty oil does not perform nearly as effective as clean oil. However, you should never fall victim to the 3000-mile oil change myth. This folk tale was created in an effort to acquire more of your hard-earned cash. Most cars can safely go at least 5000 miles between oil changes. The best source to determine the correct oil change interval is the owner’s manual for your vehicle.  And don’t forget, changing the oil and filter is not hard.  If you don’t mind getting a little dirty, you can do it yourself.


Wheel Alignment
Many drivers underestimate the importance of a wheel alignment procedure. Potholes and bumpy roads can suddenly throw your wheels out of alignment at any given moment. If you ignore the warning signs, the driving dynamics of your car will only get worse. Not only do you sacrifice your safety, but you could also be destroying the car’s tires. Even a fresh set of tires can be ruined within a few weeks of driving around on a bad wheel alignment. If you are driving at normal speeds and you notice your car pulls to once side when you let go of the wheel, or if you routinely hit potholes, then you should get the alignment checked out as soon as possible.


Air Filter
The air filter is the most cost-effective replacement part on your vehicle. Most filters only cost a few dollars to purchase. The best thing about an air filter is that you can avoid the expense of a repair shop by replacing it yourself. Not only is a contaminated air filter bad news for your car’s performance, but it will also cause your gas mileage to plummet.


Tire Pressure
Keep a close eye on the pressure of your tires. Invest in a cheap tire gauge so they you can easily check each tire’s pressure on a regular basis. A tire gauge is substantially cheaper than a new set of tires. Underinflated tires wear out a lot sooner than they should. Your car will always get better gas mileage when the tires are at their optimum pressure


Got a bump? Get it fixed!
Someone backed into you in the parking lot?  If they gave you their info, you need to follow up and get it fixed.  The value of your car will drop dramatically if you don’t.  But what if they didn’t stick around, and you can’t afford the repair?  Well you have to at least make sure that little bump doesn’t turn into a major rust out and repair.  Scratches in the paint are like an open wound: the bare metal underneath starts to rust almost immediately.  So, to stop it on the cheap, and save your fender, stop by an auto parts store and get a small can of matching touchup paint for your car.  You don’t have to be an artist.  Just wipe the area clean and touch up any scratches or bare spots with the paint.  It may not look like a factory job, but it will be a lot cheaper to repair properly when you can afford it.


Remember, your car is one of you most valuable assets.  There are thousands of Embassy Loans customers every year that prove that by using an auto title loan to free up that value and turn it into cash.  Make sure you do the basics to take care of that car.  It will save you money!