Self-Maintenance for Your Car
By: BreakdowncoverLearn these quick car maintenance tips to keep your vehicle and your motoring running smoothly.
No, we're not suggesting you go out and become a mechanic. Nevertheless, here at breakdowncover4you.com we believe in helping you keep your vehicle ready for travel. These tips will help prevent breakdowns and save you money on repairs. That's a lot for just a few minutes of regularly scheduled check. By marking your calendar for the entire year at one time, you won't even have to think about whether you've done your car maintenance. Just check your calendar or your scheduler, and you won't miss keeping your car in tip-top shape.
Air Filter-Check it every month. Replace it when it becomes dirty or as part of a general tune -up. It is easy to reach, right under the big metal 'lid', in a carbureted engine; or in a rectangular box at the forward end of the air in a duct hose assembly
Belts-Inspect belts and hoses smoothly. Replace glazed, worn or frayed belts. Replace bulging, rotten or brittle hoses and tighten clamps. If a hose looks bad, or feels too soft or too hard, it should be replaced.Battery- Extreme caution should be taken while handling a battery since it can produce explosive gases. It is advisable not to smoke, create a spark or light a match near a battery. Always wear protective glasses and gloves.
Brake Fluid-Check the brake fluid monthly. First wipe dirt from the brake master cylinder reservoir lid. Pry off the retainer clip and remove the lid or unscrew the plastic lid, depending on which type your vehicle has. If you need fluid, add the improved type and check for possible leaks throughout the system. Do not overfill.
Exhaust-Look underneath for loose or broken exhaust clamps and supports. Check for holes in muffler or pipes. Replace the rusted or damaged parts. Have the emission checked at once per year for compliance with local laws.
Engine Oil-Check the oil after every fill up. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean. Insert it fully and remove it again. If it is low, add oil. To maintain peak performance, the oil should be changed every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first. Replace the oil filter with every oil change.
Transmission Fluid-Check transmission fluid monthly with engine warm and running, and the parking brake on. Shift to drive, then to park. Remove dipstick, wipe dry, insert it and remove it again. Add the approved type fluid, if needed. Never overfill.
Tyres-Keep tyres inflated to recommended pressure. Check for cuts, bulges and excessive tread wear. Uneven wear indicates tyres are misaligned or out of balance.Lights - Make sure that all your lights are clean and working, including the brake lights, turn signals and emergency flashers. Keep spare bulbs and fuses in your vehicle.
Power Steering Fluid-Check the power steering fluid level once per month. Check it by removing the reservoir dipstick. If the level is down, add fluid and inspect the pump and hoses for leaks.
Keeping your car running smoothly can also save you money on breakdown cover insurance. Many companies offer renewal discounts if no calls have been made within the last year. Do yourself and your vehicle a favor and make sure the maintenance is up to date. As always if you are uncertain regarding any of these tips th
