Investing in a new car is expensive and can take a toll on your finances. The way to keep your car running optimally and efficiently is through preventive maintenance. This will keep your ride functioning just the way you envisaged and also save you money in the future on repairs. It will also help you put off the need for a new vehicle. Anytime you can save money during a recession is a good thing as well.
Here is some preventive maintenance every car owner should know and follow….
Inspect Your Car Regularly
Learn to inspect your car regularly to spot anything that looks or feels amiss. Do a little assessment every time you park your car. When you get home, make sure the engine and lights are working properly. Also have a look at the tires to identify any objects that could cause punctures. Once a week check the tire pressure. Invest in an air pressure gauge for accuracy. Remember properly inflated tires help with fuel efficiency. Visually check the treads of the tires to ensure they have sufficient tread. Start the car and keep an ear out for strange noises.
Check Fluid Levels
You don’t have to know how to change the antifreeze, wiper fluid or coolant, but you definitely should learn how to check the levels of these fluids. Generally, there are gauges as well as dipsticks that allow you to check levels. If the fluid level is low, top it up. You can ask your mechanic to do it or your car servicing company.
Check Oil Level and Change it when Needed
Murky engine oil and low level oil can prevent your engine from working smoothly. Educate yourself on what is clean and murky oil. This knowledge will come handy when you check the oil. Get a professional to change the oil and if it is still dirty and murky, it is a sign that there is a problem with your engine. Your car oil should be changed regularly to increase the life of your vehicle’s engine, so don’t delay your oil changes.
Look Under the Hood
Don’t be afraid to look under the hood of your car. Visually inspect the battery for leaks and clean contacts. Make sure the contacts have no buildup. Invest in a battery cleaning brush to clean contacts regularly. Also, purchase a jump starter. This way, you will not have to wait for the garage to come to your rescue. You can jump start the engine if it stalls and then drive to your garage to get the problem fixed.
Replace Air Filters
Your vehicle has a cabin filter and cabin air filter. Both need to be changed periodically. If you can’t do it yourself, visit a reliable garage and get the filters changed. While the cabin filter may not help with optimal working of your car, it will make your ride more comfortable. On the other hand, a clean engine air filter is a necessity, especially if you drive your car a lot.
Get Tires Rotated and Aligned
Check your owner’s manual to find out how often you should get the tire rotated. This is necessary to ensure even wear of the tire tread. Tires are expensive and the last thing you need is replacing them frequently. Rotating and aligning the tires will make the tires last longer and save you money in the long run.
Replace Windscreen Wipers
If the wipers are leaving a streak on the windscreen, it is time to replace them. Wipers are cheap and you can easily replace them yourself. Learn how to do it. Remember, visibility is important for safe driving, so don’t ignore those streaks on your windscreen.
Check Your Belts
There are a series of rubber belts at the front of your engine. They loop around different pulleys for the purpose of driving various things like the a/c compressor, alternator and other facilities of your vehicle. The rubber wares out as a result of the extreme conditions created by the engine. After every 25,000 miles get these belts checked and replaced after 50,000.
Use Technology to Your Advantage
It’s difficult to remember the last time you services your vehicle or had your oil changed. Storing your maintenance receipts in the glove compartment isn’t enough to remember when you need to get your car serviced next. You can avoid these issues by setting reminders on your phone or using your car servicing company’s app.
Contact a Mechanic when Necessary
There are some car maintenance and repair tasks you will not be able to do by yourself. If your car makes a funny noise, the engine won’t start, the brakes don’t work or you need to change the battery of your car, you need the assistance of a mechanic. This will ensure the replacements and repairs are done properly so that you remain safe and your car lasts longer.
Preventive maintenance makes your car more efficient and saves you time, money, and stress. If you are unable to handle preventive maintenance yourself, find a reliable garage with qualified mechanics to do it for you. It will keep you and your car happy.