Fluid Checks

Every 3 months

The various fluids in your vehicle are essential to keeping the car functioning as it should. Fluid levels that are going down faster than normal can also indicate that something is wrong.

Keep an eye on your dashboard lights for an indication that fluids are low, and manually check these fluids every 3 months so you can top off when needed:
 

• Windshield washer fluid: Keeping levels topped off ensures you’re never on the road with a dirty windshield and an empty reservoir, which could be a safety hazard to you and your passengers. 
• Coolant: The engine needs coolant to maintain an optimal temperature. You may not need to top up coolant every 3 months, but there’s no harm in checking regularly to make sure there are no leaks. 
• Brake fluid: If you want your brakes to function properly, you need brake fluid. Get into the routine of checking the levels regularly so if there’s a leak, you’ll know about it ASAP. 
• Transmission fluid: Transmission fluid allows your car to seamlessly shift gears. It will generally need to be changed every few years (check your owner’s manual for exact recommendations), but since it’s an essential part of your vehicle, checking it regularly is best practice.

Tire Maintenance

Varies

There are a few services that fall under the tire maintenance category, and they usually are done at different intervals. The bottom line is it’s important to pay attention to the condition of your tires and inspect them regularly. Here are four tire services that should be part of your maintenance schedule:

Tire pressure

Checking your tire pressure can be quick and easy. Some vehicles have a dashboard light to indicate tire pressure issues. Older vehicles may require a manual check with a tire pressure gauge. Either way, get in the habit of verifying your tires are maintaining the proper tire pressure at least once a month. This will help maintain optimal handling and fuel efficiency and prevent abnormal tread wear. 

You can find the right tire pressure for your vehicle in the owner’s manual or listed on a sticker placed either on the vehicle's door jamb, inside the glove box door, or on the fuel door. If you notice your tire pressure keeps dropping below the recommended levels, you may have a slow leak. The experts at Firestone Direct can inspect and repair your tires if needed. 

Rotation

Regular tire rotation helps ensure your tires wear evenly. It can also help you catch and fix other alignment and suspension issues before they cause additional, more expensive damage. Tire rotation involves taking each tire off and moving it to a different position on your vehicle. The right rotation pattern depends on the type of tires you have. The general guideline is to rotate your tires every 6 months or 5000 miles. 

Alignment 

Misaligned tires can lead to uneven tread wear and cause your tires to wear out prematurely. If your vehicle is pulling to one side, that’s a tell-tale sign you need an alignment service. In the absence of symptoms, having the alignment checked once a year is a good practice. 

New tires

There’s no guarantee for how long your tires will last, but on average, five to six years is typical. Uneven tread wear and low tread depth are major signs that it’s time to get a new set. After you purchase a set of tires on our website, we’ll deliver and install them in one service appointment.

Brake Services

At least once a year

A full brake inspection is recommended at least once a year. If you notice signs of worn pads like a squealing sound, the wheels locking up when you brake, vibration or pulsing, or a soft brake pedal, get your brakes checked immediately. Firestone Direct can come to you and inspect the brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid levels to determine next steps.

Filter Replacements

Once a year

Depending on your typical driving conditions, air filters can generally last up to a year. You can do a quick visual inspection every few months to make sure they are still healthy.
 

• Engine air filter: Helps keep dust and contaminants out of the engine. Your driving habits and the environment and road conditions you drive can impact how often you need to change the filter. 
• Cabin air filter: Helps keep the inside of your car free of dust and airborne particles from the engine. Some people choose to replace the filter at the beginning of allergy season, which is the spring in many states. 
• Fuel filter: For cars powered by fuel injection, a fuel filter keeps the fuel system clean. Change your fuel filter every 10,000 miles to ensure it is successfully keeping contaminants out of the fuel line

How Firestone Direct Can Help

As a mobile mechanic, our service vans are fully equipped for inspections, routine maintenance and some repairs. Make an appointment, and one of our experts will come to you, wherever you are. That means you don’t have to take time out of your schedule to drive to the auto shop and wait for your vehicle to be serviced. We’re here to help you adhere to recommended service intervals and keep your car running smoothly.