At Beck’s Auto Center in Lafayette, we’ve seen just about every type of vehicle issue you can imagine. And while major repairs get most of the attention, it’s often the small, overlooked maintenance tasks that lead to the biggest surprises (and expenses) for drivers.
If you’ve ever said something like…
“I had no idea that tiny filter could cause my A/C to stop blowing cold.”
“Wait — I was supposed to grease that?”
“Nobody ever told me coolant wears out!”
…you’re definitely not alone.
Modern vehicles are more advanced than ever, but they still rely on regular upkeep to stay reliable. Below are five maintenance services that are frequently forgotten, but that make a big difference in your car’s performance and longevity. If you’re keeping track of your car maintenance checklist in Lafayette, IN, this is a great place to start.
1. Cabin Air Filter Replacement
Think of your cabin air filter like the HVAC filter in your house. It filters the air you breathe inside your car and keeps dust, pollen, and pollutants out of your vents. When the filter becomes clogged, it can:
- Restrict airflow from your vents
- Weaken your A/C and heating performance
- Cause your blower motor to work harder, increasing wear
In dusty or rural parts of Indiana, it’s best to replace the filter once a year or every 15,000 to 30,000 miles.
“They actually showed me a dirty cabin filter and explained how it was affecting my airflow. That’s why I keep coming back.”
– David R., West Lafayette
2. Chassis Lubrication
Even with modern suspension systems, chassis lube service is still essential, especially for trucks and SUVs. Certain joints and pivot points need periodic lubrication to function properly and avoid unnecessary wear. Skipping this can lead to:
- Creaks, clunks, or popping sounds
- Worn suspension components
- Steering or alignment issues
At Beck’s, we inspect and lubricate all serviceable joints, including zerk fittings, during scheduled maintenance. It’s one of those small things that can prevent big problems down the road.
3. Battery Terminal Cleaning
Corrosion around your battery terminals might not seem like a big deal, but it can cause:
- Intermittent starting issues
- Power loss to essential electrical systems
- A shorter overall battery lifespan
Our techs check and clean terminals during every routine service, helping you avoid the inconvenience of a dead battery or failing electronics. It’s a quick fix that goes a long way.
4. Brake Fluid Flushes
Brake fluid maintenance is one of the most overlooked services we see. Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air. That moisture can lead to:
- Rust and corrosion inside brake components
- A spongy feeling when you press the brake pedal
- Reduced stopping power in emergencies
We recommend flushing your brake fluid every two to three years, or around 30,000 miles—especially in the humid climate we often see here in Lafayette. It’s a small investment that improves safety and extends the life of your brake system.
5. Coolant System Inspections
Coolant does more than keep your engine from overheating. It also helps protect the water pump, heater core, and head gasket from damage. If your coolant is low, old, or contaminated, you could experience:
- Heater failure during winter
- Water pump breakdowns
- Serious engine damage, including blown head gaskets
At Beck’s, we perform coolant pressure testing and inspections during regular maintenance appointments. If a flush is needed, we’ll let you know before it becomes an issue.
“They found things my dealership missed — nothing urgent, but stuff that made me feel like I got ahead of future problems.”
– Lindsay G., Lafayette
Staying Ahead of the Little Things
These small services may not be top of mind, but they play a big role in your car’s overall health and performance. At Beck’s Auto Center, we go beyond the basics during every inspection—because we know that staying ahead of minor issues can save you time, money, and headaches in the future.
If it’s been a while since your last check-up, or you’re unsure about when you last had a brake fluid flush or cabin filter replacement near Lafayette, give us a call. We’re here to help you protect your investment—and keep your vehicle running at its best.
Book your next service with Beck’s Auto Center today and enjoy expert car care with honest, experienced technicians who truly have your back.