Hello, my name is David. Welcome to my blog. There is nothing I like more than hitting the open road and going for a drive in my car. I have always loved everything to do with automobiles. When I was a boy, I had a collection of 208 different toy cars which I would play with all day long. As soon as I was old enough, I began taking driving lessons and the day I passed was the best day of my life. Although I am not a mechanic, my dad taught me lots of neat tricks so I can keep my car in top condition. I hope you enjoy my blog.
Car repair services are expensive, but you can save money through applying some basic preventative measures. Whether you are a car enthusiast or not, you should be able to know the recommended servicing schedule by the manufacturer. There are many online forums with varying information so you should get details from the owner's manual or the manufacturer's website. In addition, DIY inspection of the car is necessary in identification of problems before escalation. Here are the fundamental guidelines for auto maintenance.
Fluids and Oil
You should learn how to check fluid levels to ensure that the performance of the vehicle does not decline. These fluids encompass the coolant, antifreeze, power steering and the wiper fluid. Typically, there are gauges and dipsticks that will help you identify how the current levels of a particular fluid compare with the indicated optimal notch. In some vehicle models and features, you can look directly into the tanks. When the levels are low, you should add more or consult a professional for changing. The engine oil tank may have a dipstick for checking levels, but many modern cars have electronic gauges. Change the oil according to the manufacturer's recommendations as opposed to the apparent universal standards. It is also important to know the dissimilarity between clean and dirty oil. This will prevent you from changing oil unnecessarily and also serve as an indicator of the health of your engine.
Filters and Spark Plugs
Cabin air filters are installed so that the vehicle will be comfortable, though they are not critical to the functionality. The feature is usually easily accessible and replacement filters can be purchased at local auto shops. The engine air filter is vital, and it should be replaced when it is dirty. The manual will only give an estimate, so it is advisable for you to make regular changes if you drive frequently, especially in long commutes, so as to maintain optimal engine performance. Worn-out and dirty spark plugs prevent the engine from functioning efficiently, which results in usage of more fuel, and it will eventually lead to breakdown. Change them as recommended depending on whether the plugs are standard copper or finer materials such as iridium.
Battery
Though most modern batteries do not require extensive maintenance, you should check it regularly to ensure that there are no leaks or build-ups on the terminals. Use a battery cleaning brush on the contacts to restore good performance. Moreover, you should consider purchasing a jump starter and battery tester to enhance your servicing options.
For more information, contact a business such as Auto Basics.
Share28 January 2015
