Car under the weather?
It’s simple and if done regularly it will save drivers from future problems. It’s car maintenance, and even though it may cost students some cash, according to local mechanics, it’s worth the price.
“If you keep up on maintenance you will have a lot less break downs,” said Aaron Rudie, who works at Carsmart Automotive Repair. “Doing the little things will prevent cars from having major repairs later.”
Rudie said the biggest thing that will help keep cars healthy and happy is to follow the vehicle’s manufacturer recommendations. Suggestions include getting coolant flushes, transmission service and keeping fluids maintained.
Although most people are really good about getting their car oil changed, Rudie said, they usually don’t realize that power steering and break fluids should be checked every so often depending on how many miles are on the car.
And if a car owner doesn’t know the manufacturer recommendations on a certain vehicle, many places like Carsmart can look up the year, make and model of a car and tell them what the vehicle suggestions are, Rudie said.
If cars aren’t taken care of timing belts can break, engines can sludge up and the car could be at risk of overheating, said Art Henrie, service advisor at Accurate Automotive and Performance. He added that seals can get worn down and cars may get oil leaks.
“Doing general maintenance is always cheaper than waiting until the last minute when the car breaks,” Henrie said.
Another thing car owners can keep their eyes on is what kind of fuel they are using. Certain cars call for higher grades or diesel fuel and it’s important to follow the recommendation. Basically though, the higher the octane, the better and cleaner it will burn. Even though it’s more expensive the better gas will leave fewer deposits in the fuel system and there will be less internal carbon in the engine.
In the winter a special check on cars is also a good idea. Rudie said students can check their tire pressure, the belts, hoses and cooling system. Henrie said tires should be full and rotated regularly. Car owners can also get studded snow tires to help when the roads are icy and slick.
As far as keeping cars clean in the winter, other than going to the car wash, there really isn’t anything people can do. Vehicles are going to get dirty, sludgy and icy, Henrie said.
A few more tips:
• Fluids lubricate the moving parts of the vehicle and prevent friction, heat and wear. As long as they are full, and checked regularly, the life of the car will be extended.
• When getting oil changed, make sure to go to a company that is reputable. Some places have been known to skip changing the oil, if or they do change it, they don’t change the oil filter.
• In the spring and fall, give the car a thorough wash, tar removal and wax. When washing in-between, use a safe car wash that will work for clear coat and wax finishes.
• Every three months and before going on a road trip, have tire pressure checked.
• If any little problems are noticed, such and strange noises or leaks, be sure to take the car into a mechanic or garage as soon as possible. Anything irregular should be taken care of as soon as possible.
Tips courtesy www.samarins.com and www.momslife.com