Cars, like anything, require regular upkeep. Ignoring repairs could turn minor issues into expensive problems.
Hereβs a list of essential maintenance tasks youβll encounter and how often youβll need them.
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An oil change is like your carβs reset button. The engine oil lubricates, cleans, and cools the engine, preventing costly damage.
For most cars, an oil change is due every 5,000 to 7,000 kilometres (about every three months, depending on your driving habits).
The budget? About Kshs 3,000-4,500 for a minor service on a saloon car and up to Kshs 7,000 for an SUV.
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If you want your tyres to last, rotate them every 10,000 kilometres. This evens out wear, so your tyres donβt get bald spots.
Rotations are relatively affordable, usually costing Kshs 250-500 depending on the vehicle size. However, tyres themselves are pricier, ranging from Kshs 10,000 to Kshs 20,000 each, depending on brand and size.
Keep a budget handy for new tyres every 40,000 to 60,000 kilometres.
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Youβll know itβs time for new brake pads if your car screeches when you brake. For your safety, donβt ignore this!
Brake pads typically last between 30,000 and 50,000 kilometres, and replacements range from Kshs 2,000 to Kshs 6,000 depending on your car type.
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Batteries have a life span of about three years, but cold mornings, long idle times, or poor charging systems can shorten this.
Budget around Kshs 6,000-12,000 for a replacement, depending on battery quality and your carβs power requirementsβ.
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The alternator keeps your battery charged while you drive, and the radiator cools the engine. These donβt need frequent replacement, but if they go, youβll know: you may lose power, or your engine will overheat.
Replacements can run you Kshs 8,000-25,000, depending on whether itβs the alternator or radiator thatβs the culpritβ.
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Itβs a smart move to set aside about 10-15% of your monthly income for car-related expenses. This covers routine maintenance and prepares you for unexpected repairs.
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