Oil Change: What Are Some of the Components of a 21-Point Check?

Some of the vital maintenance needs that will be completed when you get a 21-point oil change can extend the life of your vehicle. It is a good idea to get these vital checks to keep your vehicle running longer. A mechanic may check your battery during the check. This is important, because you need a well-charged battery to start your car. The mechanic can let you know if your battery is weak so you can get it recharged or you can get a new battery.

The mechanic also will check the pressure in your tires. If you do not take care of your tires, you will get lower gas mileage and your tires may wear out more quickly. Some drivers may roll over a nail and find that they have a slow leak as a result. The mechanic can let you know if this is the case, saving you from having a flat tire.

Checking your windshield wiper blades is also part of the 21-check that takes place during a scheduled oil change. As you know, if you do not get new wiper blades when you need them, your visibility will decrease when driving during rainy weather. It is best to get your windshield wiper blades changed when recommended by your mechanic. Various fluids are replaced and checked during the maintenance. For example, your mechanic will check your brake fluid, transmission fluid, steering fluid, and battery fluid. Drivers who are less likely to remember to have these checks completed regularly should have them checked during the 21-point service.

Your mechanic will also check your air filter and other filters. Changing these filters during an oil change can help you make sure that your vehicle runs properly and can keep vital parts of your engine from becoming damaged. Most people forget to change their air filters, so it's a good idea to request the 21-point check if you think that you will remember to perform this maintenance task.

Many mechanics will vacuum your rugs as a part of the check. This courtesy will save you time, and you can schedule your check at a time when you plan to get a oil change. This act will allow you to have a completely clean vehicle as well as a well-maintained vehicle.

If you have ever been pulled over by a law enforcement official, because you have had a non-working tail light or signal lights that were not working, you will appreciate the 21-point check. The check includes an inspection of your lights and signals. Your mechanic will let you know if any of your lights are not working properly, so you can be spared the embarrassment and the financial burden of getting a ticket. When you visit a mechanic that offers a 21-check, you can have various maintenance tasks performed that can assist you in enjoying a safer, smoother ride in a well-maintained vehicle. It is worth the extra time and money that it may cost to have these checks completed, because you do not have to buy the equipment and tools to complete the tasks yourself.