What to Look for in Automotive Maintenance

By Jewel Chesson


By the time a car has been bought, insured, fuelled 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.

Taking care of a car requires constant monitoring and continuous maintenance. To ensure cars are provide maximum efficiency and safety manufactures set requirements for routine car maintenance. There are also other options that owners can take to preserve the life of their car.

Do it yourself replacements can be done with certain parts of the car including fuses, light bulbs and windshield wipers. Analyze the car for flawed areas to reduce repair costs and reduce the chances of harming others.

A quick and easy activity is to examine your tires. Make sure your tires are always properly inflated. It provides for a smoother ride and better gas usage. Drivers need to check their tire pressure from week to 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. Wheel lugs need to be tightened prior to a long trip or any driving activity.

Routinely examining oil and water levels help with the upkeep for a car. 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. Radiator coolant replacement is part of required maintenance for any car.

Lights and indicators must be checked every month. Indicator flashers blink quickly when a bulb blows out. Anyone can change the bulb themselves, but cannot touch the glass on the bulb. These bulbs are halogen bulbs, and any residue left on the glass could make it heat up more in that area and explode.

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. An easy way to protect a car is by a quick waxing job. Clearing brake dust is important too. It clutters the breaks and other car components. Cold water and a sponge is an easy way to get rid of brake dust.

Check for corrosion and reduced battery life through battery maintenance. Check the water levels regularly, and keep the battery posts clean to ensure a good connection and clean starting.

Weekly check-ups of fluids and car mechanics reduce costs and problems. Well kept cars provide a safe environment for drivers and their passengers.




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