When you purchase a car, it may seem like the hard part is over. You picked out your perfect vehicle, negotiated the price, and signed on the dotted line. Many people don't realize that cars require maintenance to last years without requiring repairs or replacement parts. If you neglect your car's needs during its first few months of ownership, you will eventually have to pay for costly car repair services. If you don't want this to happen to you, follow these simple tips.

1. Change Oil Regularly

The most important thing you can do to avoid expensive car repairs is to change your oil regularly. Many people make the mistake of thinking that they only need to get their oil changed when it starts looking black, but this is hardly ever the right time. Manufacturers typically recommend that you change your oil every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or three months. You should consult your owner's manual to determine the correct schedule for changing your oil.

2. Check Tire Tread Regularly

You should also check your tire tread whenever you get an oil change and make sure to buy new tires if you notice any unusual wear patterns. If you notice any ridges, bumps, or other irregularities in the tread, this usually indicates that it's time to replace your tires. You should also replace them if they are more than six years old.

3. Get an Inspection to Identify Ongoing Problems

If you perform regular maintenance and catch small problems before they become big problems, this will significantly reduce the risk of car repair. Luckily, most professional mechanics can inspect your vehicle and identify any problems before they become costly. If you pay for this type of inspection regularly, you may be able to avoid costly car repairs altogether.

4. Schedule Routine Maintenance

In addition, you should also schedule routine maintenance that your car needs to run properly. This includes having your transmission fluid and coolant levels checked regularly to ensure they are at the right levels. In addition, you should have your brake pads, belts and hoses checked to make sure they are in good condition. You should also have your air filter, timing belt and water pump checked regularly to ensure optimal performance.

According to Automotive Research, an estimated 7.9% of customers report that they have put off vehicle maintenance. Some people often put off routine maintenance to save money, but the truth is that eventually, this type of neglect will cost them a lot more.