The same thing was repeated by our parents. “Take care of your toys, and they’ll last longer.”Yes, our parents were right about more than just video games and bikes. They also had a point about grown-ups. “toys”Like Toyotas, Hondas, and Fords.

Consumers might think that they can save money by delaying routine vehicle maintenance in today’s difficult economy. AAA states that if you take the time to maintain your vehicle, it can help prevent more expensive repairs down the line. “While it’s true that today’s models require less frequent maintenance and are more reliable on the road, it is still important not to take our vehicles for granted,”John Nielsen, director of AAA Approved Auto Repair Network. “A small investment of time and money can mean big savings in the long run.”

These suggestions from AAA can help you avoid costly repairs

– Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance manual. You can find helpful information in your owner’s guide.

– Clean your cooling system. Manufacturers recommend that cooling systems be flushed every 40,000 to 100,000 miles. This is a good idea. It can cause corrosion to the radiator and other parts if the coolant isn’t flushed and changed. Corrosive fluid may also affect lubricating agents, and cause the water pump to wear down. To replace a radiator, you can spend hundreds of dollars. You will need to replace the water pump, which can cost anywhere from $100-300.

Check your hoses regularly. Your vehicle may overheat if a hose breaks, and your engine could suffer damage.

Your transmission should be serviced regularly. Transmission fluid can cause internal damage and even deterioration if it is not serviced regularly. Although replacing transmissions can be costly, it is possible to avoid the expense.

– As necessary, change your timing belts. Most mechanics replace timing belts every 50,000 to 66,000 miles. Why? Why? Worse still, a broken timing belt can cause your engine to swell, leading to more expensive repairs.

High-quality maintenance is possible only by having a high-quality repair shop. A quality repair shop. AAA Approved Auto Repair Facilities guarantee that all certified technicians follow strict guidelines regarding professional conduct and quality repairs. AAA.com/Repair can help you find a local repair shop.