Essential Car Maintenance Practices to Keep Your Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, or RAM Running Smoothly

Owning a Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, or RAM vehicle comes with the promise of durability and performance, but maintaining that reliability requires consistent and informed care. Regular maintenance is crucial to extend the life of your vehicle, enhance safety on the roads of Milford, NH, and ensure optimal efficiency. Understanding essential car maintenance practices will keep your vehicle operating at its peak. Our Contemporary Automotive service center answers questions you may have about servicing your vehicle.

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Common Questions About Servicing Your Car

When to replace the air filter?

The engine air filter should be inspected every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. Similarly, the cabin air filter, which protects interior air quality, often requires replacement every 10,000 to 20,000 miles. A failing cabin filter may lead to weaker airflow or unpleasant odors inside the vehicle, diminishing passenger comfort

What fluids to check monthly?

Oil, Brake fluid, coolant, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid should be checked regularly:

• Brake fluid should be checked monthly and replaced every two to three years to maintain braking efficiency.
• Coolant replacement intervals generally around five years or 50,000 miles.
• Transmission fluid requires service between 30,000 and 60,000 miles, depending on the model.
• Power steering fluid, particularly in older RAM trucks, generally needs inspection every 50,000 to 100,000 miles

What does multi-point inspection cover?

Multi-point inspections to maintain the safety, performance, and longevity of your Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, or RAM vehicle. This comprehensive inspection inspects:

• Brake system: Including pad thickness, rotor condition, and brake fluid levels to ensure optimal stopping power.
• Battery and electrical systems: checking for signs of wear, corrosion, and proper charge to prevent unexpected failures.
• Suspension and steering components
• Belts and hoses: Cracks, leaks, or deterioration that could lead to engine overheating or mechanical breakdowns.
• Air and cabin filters
• Fluid levels and condition, including engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid, to ensure smooth operation and prevent costly repairs.

Scheduling regular multi-point inspections every oil change or approximately every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.

How often should I get an oil change?

Synthetic oil changes, commonly recommended for newer Dodge and RAM models, need replacement between 5,000 and 10,000 miles. Conventional oils generally require changes every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.

When to replace brake pads?

Brake pad replacement should occur every 25,000 to 65,000 miles. When braking, if you hear noticeable squealing, squeaking, or grinding, replacement is required immediately.

Why is my check engine light on?

Common causes for the check engine light include:

• Loose or damaged gas cap
• Oxygen sensor failure
• Catalytic converter issues
• Faulty or worn-out spark plugs
• Battery or alternator issues

Why is My Car Vibrating at Highway Speeds?

Your car shaking on highway speeds (50-60 MPH) can be caused by:

• Unbalanced or damaged tires
• Bent rims
• Misalignment
• Suspension or steering is worn out
• Warped brake rotors
• Broken engine or transmission mounts

When do I need wheel alignment?

Tire rotation and wheel alignment are recommended every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, promoting even tread wear, extending tire life, and preserving vehicle stability.

What services do I need for winter seasonal maintenance?

Preparing your vehicle for winter involves checking critical systems such as the battery, antifreeze levels, tire tread, and heating components to ensure reliable performance during harsh weather. Using winter-grade fluids and maintaining proper tire pressure can prevent common cold-weather issues like engine stalling and reduced traction on slippery surfaces.

Schedule Service at Contemporary Automotive in Milford

Our CDJR service center offers certified and expert maintenance to handle all the necessary routines. Before you schedule a service, be sure to check out our available service coupons. Contact our team at Contemporary Automotive to schedule a service with us. Serving the Bedford, Manchester, Merrimack, and Nashua areas, we are more than happy to assist you.

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