Having a car involves not just the pleasure of driving but also taking responsibility for its maintenance. Your car’s health depends on your driving style and regular maintenance. Preventive maintenance includes regular inspections, fluid changes, and minor adjustments to keep your vehicle in good condition. Its main purpose is to identify and address potential problems and increase the life of your vehicle. Follow these simple tips to extend the life of your car:
Routine Inspection
Routine maintenance is crucial for keeping your car healthy. Your car is made up of complex systems with many different components working together. Over time, these parts start to wear out and break down due to the production of a lot of heat and friction. Maintain regular checkups and inspections to avoid costly auto repairs. Consult your car’s handbook to determine how frequently to change your oil and air filters. Check the oil level, tire pressure, wiper fluid, and other things that you can perform on your own. All these inspections contribute to ensuring your car is running smoothly.
Transmission System
The transmission system plays a crucial role in keeping your car functioning well. Transmission fluid lubricates the gears, minimizes friction, and helps prevent overheating. Over time, it becomes less effective and can cause wear and tear on your vehicle. Check the transmission system regularly. Healthy fluid is reddish and translucent. If it has a dark shade, then it’s probably going to need to be replaced. Regularly check for common transmission problems. If you notice any indications, including strange noises, burnt smells, jerky movements of gears, or brown fluid leaking from your vehicle, seek early transmission repair services. It will protect you from any major damage or costly repairs.
Regular Cleaning
Cleaning your car regularly will keep it in tip-top shape. Debris and dirt can cause rust, which can damage the seats and dashboard and scratch the paint on the exterior. Salt, grime, and sludge can cause corrosion in the door bottoms and underbody components within three to four years. Regular wash and wax treatments protect your car’s exterior from corrosion and paint damage. Use a vacuum to clean debris from the interior. Use sunshades, seat covers, and floor mats to protect these areas from spills and wear and tear. If your car is damaged by an accident or has dents or paint scratches, visit an auto body shop for collision repair services.
Tire and Tread Checking
Proper tire care is essential for your car’s performance, safety, and fuel efficiency. Check the tire pressure at least once a month or after refueling to prevent issues. Keep the tires properly inflated, as underinflated or overinflated tires can affect tire life. Also, check the tread depth regularly. Low treads can compromise your car’s control. Check your tread depth with the help of a penny or tread depth gauge. If you use a penny, insert it upside down into the tread with Lincoln’s face outward. If Lincoln’s head is visible and not obscured by the tread, replace the tire. Properly inspected tires and adequate tread keep your vehicle stable and safe for driving.