For most of us, we do depend on our cars for several things, so we can’t afford to have it break down without notice. Vehicles are mechanical devices made of several parts, most of which move up or down. Some of these car parts need regular attention to keep them working properly. Regular car maintenance is easy, cheap, and quick, while major car repairs are expensive.
It is comforting to know that your vehicle is in good shape regardless of its mileage or age. And you wouldn’t need to worry about breakdowns or delays. So, what are the regular maintenance tips to help keep your vehicle in top shape and prevent small issues before becoming bigger?
1. Oil Change
Changing your car oil at regular intervals is an essential way to ensure your engine runs smoothly at all times. When you check your oil level at least once a month, you will be able to detect any potential issues before happening. It is widely recommended that you have your oil changed every 3000-3500 miles, whichever comes first. This suggestion comes from a time when car oils aren’t as advanced as they are today.
Before, motor oil begins to degrade when left in the crankcase for a long time. Car oils today don’t degrade as quickly as it used to in the past, so it doesn’t cause quick sludge accumulation. Motor engines have experienced incredible changes over the years, and they can now run longer with less maintenance. With that, several car manufacturers now recommend a change of oil every 5000-7500 miles.
2. Wax Regularly
It is important that you not only keep your car running smoothly but also looking good. It is recommended that you wax your car once every six or twelve months. However, if you care too much about how your car looks, you can decide to wax it once every three months. When you wax regularly, your car paint will always be in good condition while also defending your car body against cosmetic damage.
Remember to only use the high quality of wax if you want your car to benefit from waxing regularly. Moreover, if you must work on your car body, make sure you hire the best Brisbane panel beater company with state-of-the-art technology and the highest standards of refinishing and repairs.
3. Check Your Tires
Lots of factors can contribute to how often you need to change your car tires, some of which include how well the tire is being maintained, how often you drive, and where the car is driven. You need to know how you can test for tire wear and decide how it needs to be changed. For instance, to test your car tire tread, check the tread wear bars. You should immediately replace your tire if you find that the tread wear bars are the same with the tread pattern.
If you want to get the best out of your car tire, make sure you maintain them. This process is simple; just ensure that your car tires are inflated properly. Moreover, check your manual or consult your tire maker to know the required inflation level for your car tires.
Read More: The 5 Best Motorcycle Maintenance Tips.
4. The Brake System
Most cars today feature disc brakes in its front, and the back has drum brakes. When brakes require attention, they usually give particular warning signals. For instance, the spongy or low pedal could mean you have air in your hydraulic system. Also, when a red brake-warning light stays on, it could mean you have unevenness in your hydraulic vehicle system. Although some car brake does make noises and they are normal, grinding sounds and continuous squeals means you need to get new brake pads.
However, anytime you notice something bumpy about your car brakes, it is better to have a professional check them out. Moreover, the car owner’s manual should have a maintenance routine created to keep your car’s brakes in perfect condition. With that, you can avoid expensive repairs and potential brake failure.
5. Flush Cooling systems and Change Coolants
Your car engine oil is not the only thing you need to check regularly. While you don’t need to check your differential and transmission ‘fluids nearly as often, ensure you change the oils as well. The general rule of thumbs is that your car transmission fluids should be changed every 30,000 miles. However, try to go through the owner’s manual to see the suggested that is more appropriate for your car model. If your car is a front-wheel drive, you don’t need to change the differential oil because this type of vehicle shares the same fluid with your transmission. While in rear-wheel drive vehicles, the differential fluid is placed at the back of the car, and you should also change the differential fluid every 30,000.
6. Maintain Car Locks
Many car doors on the road are susceptible to break-ins and loss of important items while they are not in use. Car door locks are a great way to protect your car from would-be car thieves. But how do you know if your locks are still effective? From discoloration, corrosion or broken keys, it can be hard to tell. You can use a locksmith tool for cars to check the security of your car locks.
There are many ways you can learn how to maintain your car door locks properly so they will always be effective: by reading online posts, watching YouTube videos, asking friends who have expertise in the field (or, if they’re available near you), or following general tips you find on the Internet! These methods help ensure that your vehicle stays locked up tight.
