The interior and exterior features of your car are always sparkling clean. To the naked eye, it is in pristine shape. But is it, really? What does it look like under the hood? Will you be stranded on the road if you drive too many more miles in it?
Routine car maintenance is just as critical to your vehicle’s longevity and resale value as a fresh paint job and a detailed car wash. Don’t prolong the necessary upkeep due to cost and convenience as most people do. Check out these basics of a routine car service and maintenance schedule.
Oil and other fluid changes
Other than fuel, motor oil is the most essential fluid component for the operation of a car. As a lubricant, it keeps the parts of the engine from rubbing up against one another. If not, there would be irreparable damage to the engine.
You probably already know this, but the oil must be changed regularly as well. That is what keeps the engine clean. Rich White, Car Care Council Executive Director, stated that one of the least expensive ways to keep an engine at peak performance and extend the vehicle's life is to perform oil changes at the routine intervals outlined in the owner’s manual.
When in doubt, consult your owner's manual for timeline recommendations. Your local car service department has experienced technicians who can assist you as well. One of the advantages of visiting a car service department for an oil change is their eagerness to assess the other vital car fluids. These include fluid for your transmission, brakes, windshield wipers, power steering and coolant. They are also integral components of your vehicle's performance.
Belt and hose inspections
Another step in basic routine vehicle maintenance is inspecting the hoses and belts in the engine bay. The rubber hoses manage the flow of the coolant to ensure the engine does not overheat. Consumer Reports reveals that overheating can occur at any time, but it often happens in the summer with high temperatures. This is because underhood temperatures are much higher and elevate the breakdown of rubber compounds.
A hose with cracks, bulges, or other wear and tear must be replaced, and the timing belt and drive belts should also follow suit. No deterioration or material loss can be present. Belts that are too loose or too tight require adjustments to be effective, and failures in belts and hoses can cause loss of power steering and electrical charging system.
Windshield wiper replacements
Don't find yourself in a situation where you can't clear your windshield of ice, snow, rain or debris. Always have operable wiper blades.
The rubber strips on your windshield wipers wear out over time, but it's a quick installation for a technician. They can make sure that the size and fit are functional. You can also optimize the operation of your wiper blades by having your washer tank checked out.
Keep your automobile in shape by following these routine car maintenance tasks. For assistance from a professional service department, contact the Mike Duman Auto Superstore.
