4 Tips To Maintaining Your Car

by - 12/11/2018 10:01:00 PM




Photo by Mikes Photos from Pexels


Every car owner has to keep his vehicle running at its best to avoid inconveniences. Therefore, it is essential that you keep up with routine maintenance and inspections. A proper maintained car will reduce future repair costs, maintain the car’s value, and extend its life. In addition, you do not want the traffic police to keep on stopping you due to a broken tail light or missing side mirror. Most of the maintenance procedures are DIY (Do It Yourself), but you need to check with your mechanic from time to time. To help you out, here are four tips to maintaining your car.


  1. The Engine. Your engine needs oil to keep it running. For most cars, you should change the engine oil every three months or 3,000 miles. However, sometimes your oil will need extra attention. If you drive in harsh conditions such as dusty roads or you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic, consider changing the oil more often. If you regularly go on short trips without allowing your car to warm up, you could contaminate the oil, and it needs regular changing. To make sure that you keep your car running smooth, do the following engine related services often:
  • Change the oil
  • Change the oil, air, and fuel filter
  • Check the spark plugs
  • Check the PCV valve for proper operation


  1. The Braking System. Most of today’s cars come with disc brakes in the front and drum brakes in the back. All brakes rely on friction supplied by either a brake pad or a brake shoe to slow and stop the car. The disk brake utilizes a caliper fitted with brake pads to grab the spinning disc. The drum brakes have a wheel cylinder that pushes a brake shoe against the inside of a spinning drum. Brakes have several warning signals when they need attention. For example, the red brake warning light could stay on to mean your hydraulic system is imbalanced. Most people consider some brake noises such as squeals as usual, but they suggest that you need new brake pads or shoes. Anytime you notice something irregular about your brakes, have them checked out. Also, check your car manufacturers’ manual for scheduled maintenance designed to keep your brakes in shape.


  1. The Suspension System. The suspension system includes the shocks, springs, struts, steering, and tires. These components work together to keep you in control of the road. However, sometimes a problem in one area could be a sign of an issue in another part. For instance, if you realize that your tires are wearing unevenly, it may be an imbalance in air pressure. An alignment problem causes excessive wear on one edge of the tire. Have your mechanic check these and other symptoms to keep you on the road. Also, check the power steering fluid, and listen for unusual noises while driving.


  1. The Cooling System. This system keeps your engine at the favorable operating temperature. The system pumps a coolant between the engine and the radiator. Let your mechanic help you check the coolant levels in the reservoir tank and the hoses for wear and tear. He should also provide a flush-and-fill service to drain the dirty fluid and replace it with clean coolant.


Follow a regular maintenance schedule to keep your car safe and running. Consult your mechanic and online feeds for reliable information. My Car Needs This is a reputable source of information on maintenance procedures.  



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