There are several checkpoints in your vehicle that require frequent maintenance to keep it running the way you want it to. These checkpoints include the following:
- Engine oil/lubricant
- wipers
- lights
- battery
- engine
- tires
- Air conditioning
You don't need to be a professional mechanic to take care of these basic points of your vehicle.
Engine Oil/lubricant
Change it regularly. Most manufacturers' recommend changing the oil and oil filter in a vehicle every 3000 miles or every 3 months. Which ever comes first. The oil in the engine is responsible for lubrication. It ensures that the engine does not overheat. Clean oil will keep your car in better shape, cut down on repairs to the engine, and give you better gas mileage. To change your oil, you may take it to a place that specializes in oil change for a minimal cost.
Wipers
Chipped, cracked, or blunt wiper blades are a driving hazard. Don't wait till a downpour to discover your blades are not in working order. Wipers are easily replaced at home.
Washer fluid is important as well. You can make a homemade version by combining a little water, ammonia, and anti-freeze together or most stores carry it cheap enough.
Lights
Check your lights often. If any of these lights are not in working order, you can be legally fined. Check headlights, both dims and bights and don't forget the tail lights. Most of the time if any of these lights is not working; all you will need is a fuse.
Battery
Make sure all the connections are good and there is no corrosion. Most batteries today have an indicator level on them that will show when the battery is getting low. Batteries are easily replaced at home.
Engine
Listen to your car. Strange sounds should always be check out. It is much better to catch a problem early on as it may end up costing you much more if you let it fester.
The engine has belts. You shouldn't change this yourself, but it is important to keep an eye out for worn or frayed belts. If they looked cracked or shiny or look slack, they need to be replaced right away. Loose belts cut the performance of the engine dramatically and will also decrease gas mileage.
The engine also has hoses. 18 to 24 months is the recommended life span of these hoses. Check every six months or so for cracked hoses or hoses missing clamps. Those should be replaced immediately by a mechanic.
Tires
Always check the tire pressure. 30 lbs. That is the recommended amount of pressure for a properly inflated tire. Under inflated tires wear quickly and may require you to prematurely purchase new tires. Over inflated tires will make them more prone to blowouts. Use a tire gauge to check pressure periodically. It could save you a lot of headaches not to mention money in the future.
Tires should also be rotated. They don't wear evenly, so rotation greatly increases the lifespan.
It does not take a mechanic to check these checkpoints on a vehicle. With a little knowledge and common sense, anyone can learn what to look for before it is too late.
Air conditioning
Always ensure that your air conditioning system working properly. Check by selecting all speed of blower and differentiate theif temperature. Air condition prevent mist occur especially on the night or rainy day. Improper working condition of air conditining limiting your driving visuality.
