Severe driving encompasses a number of conditions that cause extra wear on your car’s components and fluids, and driving on rough bumpy or dusty roads is just one of them.

Believe it or not, a majority of drivers should be following the severe driving conditions maintenance intervals, but most people don’t think they qualify for this maintenance schedule.  Here are several conditions that can cause excessive wear and tear on your vehicle.

• Driving in stop & go traffic typical of city driving.
• Frequent short trips of less than 10 miles.
• Driving on dusty, muddy, sand or gravel roads.
• Driving on roads where salts or other corrosive materials are used.
• Frequent idling.
• Towing heavy loads (i.e. a trailer).
• Driving less than 50 miles per hour for long distances.
• Living in costal areas.
• Driving in extremely hot or cold weather.

If you meet any of these conditions, then check your owners’ manual.  You probably should be following the guidelines your auto manufacturer recommends for “severe driving conditions”.  Each one of these items can cause different problems. For example, driving on dusty roads means that your air cleaner element needs to be changed more frequently, while driving in extremely hot or cold weather can contaminate the air filter, requiring more frequent changing.

Do you have more questions about how your driving habits can impact your recommended maintenance schedule.  Taking advantage of our free oil change consultation is a great place to start.

Or, if you find that you are overdue for preventive maintenance service, schedule an appointment today!