Most of us pay attention to our vehicles when they are under warranty.  Then when anything goes wrong, we can take it to the dealer have it repaired at the manufacturer’s expense.  But how many of you use this as a preventative maintenance too?

It was subject that came to mind for me last week.  My MINI warranty will lapse in 5,000 miles or two months, whichever comes sooner.  Since I was at the point of needing an oil change, it was an opportunity to stay ahead of the repair issues.  I asked my mechanic, at My Mercedes and Bimmer Place to go over the vehicle while they were changing the oil to determine if there were any potential problems that I could take to the dealer and prevent my having to pay for a repair after the warranty expires.

Fortunately, for me, it was not an especially big problem that Danny found, but one that could potentially cost me in the future.  My power steering reservoir is leaking.  Danny explained that the material from which the reservoir is made is inherently porous and can continue to erode.

I called my MINI dealer and made an appointment for next week.  I made sure to tell the circus writer that I had a faulty part and that I expected them to have one on hand when I brought the car in.  Regardless, if their track record remains intact, they will have my car most of the week.  However, they do have to provide me with a loaner while mine is being repaired.

By finding a local, independent mechanic you can avoid costly repairs.  They will advise you when your vehicle needs repair, and wither or not this repair would be covered under your warranty.  Be especially vigilant when the expiration of your warranty gets close.

Stay linked in to Women’s Automotive Connection for more advice on how to keep your money in your wallet and not in the dealership’s.