If you made a resolution to improve your relationships in 2016, we applaud you. But did you think about the important relationship you share with your car? Think about it; there are likely few people in your life you depend on as much as you depend on your car. Use the New Year as an excuse to work on the relationship that keeps you going (literally), by practicing better auto maintenance in 2016.

Work on that bod

If you, like millions of Americans, made a resolution to hit the gym more often this year, you already know the benefits of a great body. What you may not realize, however, is that maintaining a good auto body is pretty important, too. Any dents and dings in your car's body could lead to a rust problem down the line, because a dent actually breaks the sealant in your car's paint. After this “unsealed” area is exposed to sun, rain and other environmental factors, that little dent could end up costing you more — both in aesthetics and in repair costs. Not to mention that all those cosmetic flaws are going to decrease your car's resale value down the line.

Get your scheduled maintenance

Want to know the easiest way to give your car a little love in 2016? Get your car's scheduled maintenance done at the recommended intervals. Believe it or not, there's a reason manufacturers recommend these regular services — and it's not just because your dealership loves to see you (though we're sure it does).

“Most repairs performed are due to lack of maintenance,” said Tom Marquis, service and parts director at Budd Baer in Washington, Pennsylvania. “If you do the factory-recommended maintenance, chances are really good that it will save you money down the road.”

Keep the pressure on

Whether you're due for an oil change or tire rotation, you should be regularly checking your tire pressure. This is particularly important during the winter, according to Green Living Online. “Cold temperatures decrease the air pressure in tires, which adds to the rolling resistance caused by snow and slush,” the website advises. Driving with improperly inflated tires can also kill your fuel economy and decrease the life of your tires, both of which will cost you down the line.

Choose the right technician

When it comes to finding the right technician to care for your car, experience and credentials matter; and not all auto body garages are created equal.

“Take your vehicle to a qualified repair facility that performs a multi-point inspection when you have your vehicle in for maintenance or repair,” said Marquis. “When you take your vehicle back to your new car dealership, their technicians are highly trained and know your vehicle the better than anybody. Vehicles today are highly sophisticated and require manufacturer-trained technicians and factory support.”

Let the light direct you

These days, you don't have to be a skilled mechanic to keep on top of your car's maintenance. In fact, your car will likely tell you what it needs — if you're diligent about heeding the warning lights. According to Edmunds, most people do nothing when they see the Check Engine light appear. In fact, the website reports that 10 percent of cars on the road have a Check Engine light illuminated, and half of the drivers of these cars have ignored it for more than three months. A Check Engine light can indicate anything from a loose gas cap to a more serious issue, so get it checked out ASAP.

If you're looking to keep your car as reliable as possible in the coming year, take some time to rethink your car maintenance strategy — it'll pay off in 2016 and long after.

This content is provided by the Advertising Department of the Observer Publishing Company.