subject: What To Look For In Automotive Maintenance [print this page] By the time a car has been bought, insured, fueled and maintained, it becomes a major investment. Cars that are properly cared for will perform at satisfactory levels for owners; cars that do not receive routine maintenance will turn into a money pit.
When it comes to looking after a car, maintenance is the most important factor. Manufacturers set certain dates and times cars need to be maintained throughout the year to keep up with safety requirements and to help them run longer. However, there are other ways to maintain and preserve a car that the owner can do themselves.
Fuse, headlights, and windshield wiper replacements can be done by the owner to save money. Checking for wear and tear in other areas can prevent expensive repairs, damage to the vehicle or endangering lives.
A quick and easy activity is to examine your tires. Make sure your tires are always properly inflated. Not only is this better in terms of road handling, but it improves the car's fuel efficiency too. Tire pressure should be checked once a week. Checking the tread helps prevent blow outs and ensures that the car grips the road. Tires should be rotated every 5000 miles or so. Secure wheel lugs are vital to short and long trips.
Checking oil and water levels regularly is something most people do when they fill up. However, keeping an eye on brake fluid levels and power steering levels can help prevent problems too, as when these get too low they can cause serious problems. Brake fluid must be set at required levels to run properly. Coolant levels should be routinely replaced also.
Monthly light and indicator check-ups are important. Blown out bulbs are shown by a quick flashing light on one side of the car. Changing the bulb is easy, but be sure not to touch the glass. These halogen bulbs get hot very quickly and can explode if exposed to residue.
Cleaner cars save on gas. It has a better presentation. Using quality detailing supplies helps to maintain the shine, and a good wax is essential to protect the body paint from scratches, weather and road debris. Application of wax is quick, easy and affordable for the protection of a car. Clearing brake dust is important too. It gathers other debris and can interfere with brakes and other nearby mechanics. Because there is a lot of static on the wheels, use cold clean water and a sponge to remove the dust easily.
Battery maintenance will help prevent corrosion and battery failure. Clean battery posts and correct water levels provide clean start ups.
Set aside an hour every weekend to perform these simple checks to prevent problems, damage and possible danger. Well kept cars provide a safe environment for drivers and their passengers.
by: Betty Grady
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