Taking care of your vehicle isn’t just about keeping it clean and full of gas — it’s about protecting one of your biggest investments. At Kunes Ford of East Moline, we see far too many costly repairs that could have been prevented with simple, routine maintenance. Whether you drive a Ford F-150, Escape, or Explorer, avoiding these common mistakes can save you thousands over your vehicle’s lifetime.
1. Ignoring Oil Changes
Oil is your engine’s lifeblood. Skip oil changes, and that lifeblood turns into sludge. Old, dirty oil can’t lubricate your engine properly, which leads to increased friction, overheating, and even total engine failure.
Why it matters: Fresh oil reduces wear and tear and keeps your engine running smoothly.
Expert tip from Kunes: Always follow your owner’s manual, but most modern Fords recommend oil changes every 5,000–7,500 miles with synthetic oil. The certified technicians at our East Moline Service Center can help set the perfect schedule for your vehicle.
2. Neglecting Tire Care
Underinflated or worn tires aren’t just bad for fuel economy — they’re a safety hazard. Improper tire pressure affects handling and braking, while uneven tread wear can signal alignment or suspension issues.
Why it matters: Poor tire maintenance can lead to blowouts, uneven wear, and costly suspension damage.
Expert tip: Check tire pressure monthly and rotate your tires every 6,000–8,000 miles. If your steering wheel shakes or your car pulls to one side, schedule an alignment check at Kunes Ford of East Moline right away.
3. Skipping Brake Inspections
Your brakes are your vehicle’s most important safety system. Ignoring the signs of worn pads — like squealing, grinding, or vibration — can lead to damaged rotors and calipers, turning a $200 fix into a $1,000 repair.
Why it matters: Timely brake service prevents dangerous failures and expensive repairs.
Expert tip: Have your brakes inspected at least once a year. Our Ford-trained technicians use OEM parts to ensure the best stopping power and long-lasting performance.
4. Overlooking Fluid Levels and Filters
It’s easy to forget that your vehicle relies on more than just oil. Transmission, coolant, brake, and power steering fluids all need regular checks. Dirty air filters or clogged cabin filters also reduce performance and fuel efficiency.
Why it matters: Low or contaminated fluids can cause overheating, poor shifting, or internal corrosion — all of which can lead to costly breakdowns.
Expert tip: Ask our service team to perform a multi-point inspection during your regular service visits. It’s the simplest way to catch small issues before they become major problems.
5. Ignoring Warning Lights
That little light on your dashboard isn’t there for decoration. Modern vehicles use sophisticated sensors to alert you to potential issues before they become severe. Ignoring “Check Engine,” “Battery,” or “Oil Pressure” warnings can cause catastrophic damage.
Why it matters: Early diagnostics often mean easy fixes. Waiting too long can turn a minor issue into a major repair.
Expert tip: Don’t guess — stop by Kunes Ford of East Moline for a quick diagnostic scan. Our technicians will pinpoint the problem and get you back on the road safely.
Protect Your Investment with Expert Ford Service in East Moline
The easiest way to avoid these maintenance mistakes is to stay proactive. At Kunes Ford of East Moline, our factory-trained service team is dedicated to helping you keep your vehicle running like new. From oil changes to full inspections, we make maintenance simple, affordable, and stress-free.
Schedule your next service appointment online or stop by our dealership in East Moline today. Preventive maintenance doesn’t just save you money — it gives you peace of mind every time you get behind the wheel.
