A car just like every other machine needs proper maintenance and care to function effectively. To avoid having problems with your car frequently there is a need for regular checks and maintenance. Car One Automotive is here to give you some maintenance tips that can help you keep your car running. So quickly let’s take a look at some of the most important things (batteries, tyres, wipers, etc.) in a car and how to maintain them.
Check Your Car Battery Condition
Check to see if the fluid inside your battery is enough and ensure the plates are fully immersed in it. You will have to remove your battery caps to see the fluid and plates but there are some batteries without removable caps. Such batteries have an indicator on the case where you can check the condition of your battery. In case the fluid level of your battery is low, use distilled water to top it not tap water and you should not overfill it.
If your battery has caps, replace the caps and ensure the clamps on the battery terminals are tight. Also, clean and dry the top of the battery and make sure there is no white or bluish substance on it. In case you haven’t charged your battery for long or your car takes more time to start than the usual time. Then there will be a need for you to get a battery charger. This can help boost the performance and lifespan of your car battery. But if you are not familiar with the battery charger or battery, or notice any damage you can seek professional help.
Note: Painted surfaces, eyes, clothing or skin should not come in contact with the fluid inside a battery because it is corrosive.
Check The Warning Signs
The dashboard warning lights are there to notify you something is wrong. When you notice a warning light is on for long, hear any unusual noise, experience any abnormalities. Or feel any unusual vibrations then is time to visit your mechanic. Also if your car is having difficulty starting, has a smoky exhaust, uses more oil or fuel than usual or you always see traces of coolant or oil on the driveway.
Check Windscreen Wipers and Washer Fluid
Avoid using household detergent (so as not to damage your wiper blade and paintwork), use the normal amount of windscreen washer additive and fill your washer bottle with clean water. Replace your wiper if the blade is damaged or doesn’t clean your windscreen well.
Check Your Cooling System and Radiator
It is very easy to check your radiator coolant level and it should be in between the low and high markings. Ensure the engine is cool before removing the radiator cap to check the coolant level. You can top the radiator up with the recommended coolant by the vehicle manufacturer if the level is low.
You should check the hoses and pipes if your car uses too much coolant as there might be a leakage somewhere. Which could be an indication of a bigger problem that needs the attention of a professional. So any swollen, cracked or soft hoses should be replaced immediately by a professional or contact Car One Automotive.
Note: To avoid injury the radiator cap should not be removed when the engine is hot.
Check Tyre Pressure and Condition
When the tyre pressure is incorrect it can reduce the lifespan of a tyre and the car might be unsafe to drive. The tyre placard is where the right tyre pressure for your car is located and is mostly found inside one of the front doors. If not there check the owner’s manual and it is good to have a basic mechanical tyre pressure gauge in your car for accuracy. For your safety ensure your tyres have enough tread and replace them before they wear out.
The minimum legal tread depth on any part of the tyre surface is 1.5mm. When tyre tread depth reaches that minimum level is an indication that it is time to get a new one. You should also check for any damage like cracks and abnormal wear. Rotating your tyres routinely as well as the spare can also help to spread the wear and increase tyre lifespan. Though there can be challenges if you have temporary spare or different sizes of tyres and wheels.
Check Transmission and Power Steering Fluids
A low-level fluid in either transmission or power steering might be due to a leak and should be checked immediately by a mechanic. Checking transmission or power steering fluid varies depending on models and makes but the owner’s manual can help you out.
Check Indicators, Headlights and Taillights
Many people often overlook the importance of working indicators, headlights and tail lights which are safety fundamentals. Check and ensure all is working and replace any blown globes with the right ones.
Check Engine Oil
Running an engine without oil will damage the engine which will be very expensive to fix. To check your engine oil level the car should be parked on level ground. Let the engine run for some time and then turn the engine off. Remove the dipstick while the engine is still warm and clean it with a clean cloth. Fully reinsert the dipstick to avoid false reading, then remove the dipstick to check the oil level. The oil level should be in between the high and low markings. Make sure you check for the right oil grade from the owner’s manual if the level of oil is low so that you can top it.
Conclusion
Service your car regularly and ensure you take all the tips listed above into consideration for proper maintenance and care. And should you encounter any issue with your car Car One Automotive can help you with any issue regarding your car. So when you notice any abnormalities in your car or any warning light that refuses to go off. It is time to visit a mechanic.
