The main difference between maintenance and repair is savings. Euromaster identifies key points in car maintenance for the summer. Investment can mean peace of mind.
Lisbon, June 26th - In addition to road safety, the main difference between maintenance and repairing a fault lies in the cost savings. Euromaster, a network of workshops specializing in comprehensive vehicle maintenance, has identified some key maintenance points with a view to the summer vacations, so that drivers can invest in their peace of mind. An 80 euro maintenance bill can end up turning into a 4,000 euro bill for a breakdown.
Oil: It is one of the most important parts of any combustion vehicle. If it isn't changed, the oil gradually loses its qualities until it causes serious problems with the engine to the point where it breaks down. An oil and filter change can cost around 80 euros, but if the engine breaks down due to lack of maintenance, the damage can reach 4,000 euros if second-hand parts are used. In the case of a new engine, the amount can be at least 8,000 euros.
Distribution beltAn essential element of the vehicle, and in around 95% of cases, its failure is synonymous with an internal breakdown of the engine and head, i.e. in many cases the complete breakdown of the engine. If properly maintained, the price of replacing it varies between 450 euros and 1,000 euros. A timing belt failure would require a major repair, costing at least 1,500 euros, and in extreme cases would require the complete replacement of the engine.
Brake padsIf they are not replaced in time, they can cause a serious safety problem and consequently damage the brake discs, causing a more expensive breakdown. In addition, if the brake pads are worn, the noise they make when they rub against the disk increases. A new set of pads costs between 80 euros and 110 euros, but if the discs are damaged, the cost will triple to around 300 euros.
Brake fluid: Brake fluid is often exposed to large temperature variations, so good maintenance is essential. It is generally recommended to replace it every two years. At the same time, brake fluid lubricates the internal parts of the brake pump and, in some cases, the regulator. If not properly maintained, in addition to the problems of stopping the vehicle in time, there is a risk of damaging the brake pump. A fluid change costs around 45-70 euros, but if the brake pump is damaged, the cost can rise to 600 euros.
Tires and steering alignmentThis simple process allows you to adjust the steering angles according to the manufacturer's specifications to ensure the vehicle's directionality and good dynamic behavior. Ideally, the steering should be adjusted once a year to ensure safe driving and the correct and full use of the tires. Otherwise, in addition to seriously affecting safety, poor steering alignment will significantly shorten the life of the tires and can even reduce their service life by up to 90%. The price of an alignment is around 25-45 euros, but depending on the car, a set of two tires can cost between 200 and 500 euros.
Charging the air conditioning: Correct control of the air conditioning in the passenger compartment is important, especially in the hot months. It is not common knowledge that the oil that lubricates the air conditioning compressor is mixed with the air conditioning gas itself. This gas, as well as changing temperature when subjected to different pressures, has to lubricate the compressor. That's why manufacturers recommend replacing it every 2-4 years. If we're talking about R134 gas, a refill can cost 50-70 euros, but if it's not replaced and the compressor breaks down, the bill will be around 450 euros.
CoolantThis liquid is responsible for absorbing the heat inside the engine and dissipating it into the radiator. If it is unable to do so, the engine will suffer major damage, from the head gasket burning out to the engine seizing up. Depending on the vehicle model, replacing the coolant costs between 50 euros and 70 euros, while repairing the engine head can cost up to around 2,500 euros.
About Euromaster
Euromaster is the network of workshops specialized in the comprehensive maintenance of vehicles throughout their useful life. Its more than 80 workshops in Portugal contribute to the road health of the automotive fleet, both passenger and commercial vehicles, as well as new forms of mobility and fleets, providing a quality service and capillarity to adapt to your needs. Its services cover not only preventive maintenance, but also predictive maintenance through data and critical point analysis. Part of the Michelin Group, Euromaster is present in 19 European countries, with more than 2,500 workshops, 10,000 professionals and 1,600 mobile units. More information at www.euromaster.pt.