To keep your Mitsubishi in good shape, you don't just want to fix things when they break. It's all about being proactive. Your owner's manual has all the details you need, such as when to change the oil and how often to rotate the tires. Following that schedule helps you dodge expensive repairs later and keeps your car running well.
Regular Maintenance Checklist for Mitsubishi Vehicles
Routine maintenance of your Mitsubishi guarantees its smooth functioning and extends its life cycle. This guide covers the basic upkeep your car needs.
Oil and Filter Changes
Engine oil makes your car run smoother by reducing friction, keeping the engine cool, improving fuel efficiency, and preventing dirt from building up. Following Mitsubishi's engine oil change schedule helps maintain engine longevity and boosts vehicle performance. Under severe driving conditions, Mitsubishi recommends oil changes every 3,500 miles or three months but permits longer intervals of 7,500 miles or six months for vehicles operating under less severe conditions.
Tire Care
Make it a habit to check your tire pressure monthly and ensure it matches the manufacturer's recommendation. If your tires are low on air, they'll wear out faster, and your car might use more gas. Mitsubishi suggests rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to keep them wearing evenly. If you notice uneven tread or your car pulls to one side, it's a good idea to check the wheel alignment.
Battery Maintenance
Take care of your battery for smooth starts and to save yourself from the hassle of abrupt stops. Check battery terminals for any corrosion and confirm all the connections are tight. As a rule, test your battery every six months to catch any potential issues early. A failing battery shows symptoms through slow engine cranking while starting and dim headlights, together with the need to jump-start often. You should replace your battery every three to five years.
If your car battery is defective, Mitsubishi will replace it for free within the first 24 months. If it fails between 24 and 37 months, you'll pay 50% of the cost, but labor for testing, removing, and installing the battery is fully covered. A dead battery isn't considered defective.
Brake System Inspection
Routine brake maintenance is essential to your vehicle's performance and safety. If you notice a squealing noise, grinding when you brake, a soft brake pedal, or it takes longer to stop, it's safe to say that your brake pads are worn out. The brake pads must be replaced if they are less than a quarter-inch thick. With time, brake fluid absorbs moisture, which leads to poorer braking performance. Mitsubishi advises regular brake fluid level checks and suggests replacement every three years.
Advanced Maintenance Tips and Tricks
These advanced maintenance tips will keep your vehicle in top condition when you go beyond routine oil changes and tire checks.
Fluid Level Checks
Your vehicle's systems rely on proper fluid levels to function seamlessly. Proper coolant level maintenance prevents engine overheating, and transmission fluid ensures smooth gear operation. Make it a point to regularly check brake, power steering, and windshield washer fluid. It helps to avoid vehicle performance problems and ensure clear vision while driving.
After the engine cools, check the fluid levels while the car is on flat ground. Use the dipstick or the marks on the tanks to see if the level is low. Consult your owner's manual for how to handle the coolant and transmission fluid.
Belts and Hose Inspections
Your car's belts and hoses power essential systems. The belts help the engine, alternator, and power steering do their jobs while the hoses move fluids such as coolant and brake fluid. Check them often for any cracks, leaks, fraying, or if they're too loose, since these issues could cause problems with your engine down the line. If you see leaks or bulges in hoses, they're deteriorating and could overheat the engine. Replace worn-out parts in time.
Air Filters Replacements
When air flows easily through the air filter, the engine gets enough air to perform better. This helps your Mitsubishi get more miles per gallon. However, the air filter gets dirty over time, reducing the amount of air that reaches the engine. As a result, it harms fuel economy and engine performance. Experts suggest checking it regularly. Change it every 12 months or 24,000 miles, or every 24 months or 48,000 miles, depending on your usage. This helps the engine run smoothly.
Performing these maintenance tips helps avoid sudden repairs and enhances your Mitsubishi's reliability and performance.
Seasonal and Long-Term Vehicle Care
Your Mitsubishi needs to adapt to seasonal changes with a year-long maintenance plan and tips.
Summer and Winter Maintenance Tips
The condition of your engine oil, battery, and tires may be affected by extreme temperature conditions. You have to keep an eye on the coolant to prevent overheating during summer while ensuring there is no drop in the efficiency of the air-conditioning system.
You should always check tire pressure during the summer to avoid mishaps due to pressure fluctuations. Check your battery health, too, because cold temperature impacts its ability to charge in winter. Also, check that wiper blades and defrosters are functional, and use winter-grade oil as directed.
Regular Waxing and Cleaning
Routine washing removes road salt and debris that cause paint damage and lead to rust. Waxing your Mitsubishi helps protect it from UV rays in the summer and road dirt in the winter. This keeps it looking good and helps it hold its value.
Professional Maintenance
When professionals handle regular maintenance, they can find issues early and help you dodge pricey repairs later on. Certified experts have the right tools and skills to check car parts way better than most car owners can. Using Mitsubishi original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts is always better than aftermarket parts. Cheaper aftermarket parts may seem cost-effective; however, they can greatly affect your Mitsubishi's functioning and performance and void the warranty. Using verified components helps maintain reliability and resale value.
Trust Boardman Mitsubishi for Expert Care and Maintenance
Our certified technicians at Boardman Mitsubishi perform vehicle repairs with genuine Mitsubishi OEM parts according to the latest manufacturer guidelines. When your car needs an oil change, a brake fix, or a simple check-up, our experts are here to help you keep it running. Trust our dealership to manage your Mitsubishi service while keeping your warranty protected.