Cars became integral attributes of modern life. Nowadays it is not just a means to show-off or to demonstrate your financial ability. Cars give you freedom and independence. Being on-wheels means being more mobile and efficient. We go to work, take our children to schools and do shopping every day. Cars make our lives easier. Visiting distant relatives or going for a weekend camping with friends and family is much easier if you have a vehicle. So cars connect people and widen our horizons.
Here at OHS Body Shop, we believe that regular check-ups and maintenance of a vehicle is as important as taking care of your health. Early detection and treatment of possible problems would not only save you a lot of time and money. A defective vehicle is a real danger for you, your passengers, and others.
Let’s go over some basic car maintenance tips that will help you keep your car in good shape and will save you a lot of money on possible major repairs.
Engine Maintenance
As a human body cannot function without a heart, a car won’t run without an engine. Being one of the most important parts of your car, the engine determines its performance, reliability, and value. There are some critical aspects of engine maintenance that every vehicle owner should observe regularly.
• Oil
Besides gasoline, oil is one of the most important fluids that make your car run properly. Oil minimized the friction between parts of an engine and therefore preserves it and extends the performance and lifetime of your vehicle in general. That is why it is very important to keep an eye on the level and quality of the oil. Every car-owner can perform a simple dipstick test for it. As soon as you notice that the oil level is low or the fluid itself is dark or muddy, you should immediately take your car to a trusted car service for an oil change. Engine damage due to a poor oil condition may be fatal to your car and extremely sensitive to your wallet.
• Other Fluids
Some other fluids help your engine run properly besides oil. And their role in car performance is not less significant. The level of antifreeze, coolant, and steering fluid may also be checked easily. Although not all owner’s manuals give you clear information on how to check or refill them. It is better to trust a professional in this matter. At the same time, those fluids tend to leak. So in case, you notice any specific spots and puddles that might have been left in your car, you should address a mechanic immediately.
• Belts
This is one more part of your car that is crucial for a proper engine. They provide the functioning of the water pump, alternator, and air conditioning compressor. Of course, they are not everlasting. They wear off and tear over time that may lead to serious and costly damage to the engine. You may check their condition visually, but it is not that easy to treat them. Therefore, you should rely on a professional mechanic to run the diagnostics and replace them if needed.
Tires
On the one hand, it is quite obvious why the condition of the tires is crucial for your car`s safety and performance. But not everybody knows that this part of the vehicle has a great influence on fuel consumption and even environmental protection.
• Air Pressure
The balance of air pressure in the tires generally influence hoe your vehicle “behaves” on the road. At the same time, underinflated tires will make you car waste gasoline while overinflated will not be compliant enough and therefore will make the ride extra-bumpy. You may always find information on the recommended air pressure in the owner’s manual or on a sticker at the driver’s door.
• Physical condition
The poor condition of tires is one of the most common reasons for car accidents. If the tires are bald or have punctures, the car may become simply dangerous. Some areas and climate conditions require a seasonal change of tires also. Anyway, it is important to address a trusted car service to be sure that the wheels of your tires are treated properly.
Brake Pads
Breaks malfunction is one of the most common reasons for tragedies on the road. It is easy to follow the condition of your breaks if you drive your car every day. As soon as you start to notice any deviations or hear a screechy noise when the car slows down, this may be a sign that your breaks are worn-down. A professional mechanic should check this kind of malfunction immediately.
Visual Check-up
After all, every driver may do a general visual check and detect any possible problems. It is always a good idea to simply raise the hood and just look inside. Any kind of cracks, leaks, or frayed cables should be a warning sign. Rust is a very important thing that you should notice and treat immediately as it tends to grow and seriously damage the car parts. Another important thing is to go through the owner`s manual and learn about all warning lights that may appear on the dashboard. And not to ignore them in case they light up.
It is always easier and cheaper to prevent a disease than to treat it. The same is true about vehicles. Regular maintenance does not take a lot of money and energy but it prevents you from serious spending in the future. A functioning car is a safe and reliable helper that makes your life better.
