If you have a new car or have been driving for a while, some tips on car maintenance can make your vehicle run at its best. This is a good read if you want directions or guidance to keep your car in top condition.
Remove brake dust from your wheels
Brake dust does not affect brake performance, but it can make your wheels look a bit shabby. The brake dust is created when the brake rotors and pads come into contact. Iron makes up 92% of brake dust. The remaining 8% is grime, dirt, and carbon particles. These particles can cause severe stains to your wheels if they are exposed to sunlight along with your reel. Therefore, wiping the dust from your wheels with a wet sponge is essential. You’ll need cold water as dust usually sticks to wheels through static electricity.
Protect the interior of your car
Avoid eating inside your vehicle as much as you can. Covering surfaces is a good idea. Floor mats will prevent you from dragging mud and dirt into your carpets. Seat covers can help protect the upholstery of your car seats. Blankets can help improve your posture, and they can even customize the appearance of your vehicle. Vacuum the car frequently. Keep your windows open if you live in a hot area. If you can’t let the hot air out, it could dry your interior and cause damage.
Check drive belts
The engine generates power to power other parts and accessories, including the ability your vehicle needs. Drive belts transfer power from the crankshaft or cram to your car’s alternator and other mechanical devices. Modern vehicles use one belt, also known as a serpentine chain, to connect and turn the crank pulley. These belts, usually made from rubber or polymers, wear out quickly, even when used regularly. Inspecting these belts for any visible hairline cracks or changes in their integrity is vital. If your engine is not chain-driven, you must also check the serpentine or V belt and timing belt.
Drive Better
Your driving style reflects your car’s condition. You can damage your vehicle if you drive it hard. This includes taking off quickly, braking quickly, making sharp turns, going over bumps, shifting hard, etc. Your car will wear out faster, and damage can occur. You can also save fuel by driving safely and smartly. Start today by examining your braking and acceleration habits. Remember that every smooth transition will save you money on gasoline. Driving below the speed limit will make you safer, help you save money, and extend the life of your vehicle.
Always carry automotive tools
Carrying some essential tools will allow you to work on your car while on the road and fix any problems that may arise. Delaying the repair of a leak can damage your engine. You’ll either need to have your car towed, or you can use your tools to fix the problem. Then, driving may not be possible. Thick gloves, heat-resistant waterproof silicone tapes, electrical tapes, screwdrivers, and tongue and groove pliers are all valuable tools. A tool kit is a good idea.
You can make better choices with a set of tools. These tools will be helpful for other purposes as well.
Cover your car with
Keep your car out of the sun, away from trees and birds. This will help to keep your paint and interior in good shape. Nature, extreme weather, and harmful radiation can damage your car. You might wash your car frequently and use a protectant on rubber and plastic parts, but a cover for your vehicle is also essential. A car cover will help keep your car in top condition for many years. Keep your car covered and in the garage when it is not being used.
Replace your wipers and clean the windshield
Unclean windshields can make it difficult to see and cause inconvenience. If not cleaned regularly, they can cause vision impairments and even accidents. To drive safely, a driver must have a clear road vision. When the rainy season approaches, check and replace your wipers if necessary. If you have damaged wipers, your car’s windshield can be scratched and obstructed. You may need to replace the entire windshield.
Check engine coolant level.
Your engine needs a system to remove the heat generated by your oil. The radiator will be required to perform this function, and the supplied coolant is the engine coolant. The heat generated by the engine will only be dispersed into the atmosphere if the coolant is high or present. Your car’s engine can overheat if you don’t check the coolant levels. As part of your checklist, check the engine coolant level before you leave your driveway. Most cars have coolant reservoirs with a translucent appearance and appropriate level markings. You should be able visually to tell if the coolant level is low without even opening the lid. You can find the engine coolant in your vehicle by reading your manual.
Do not touch the glass bulb when repairing
When you replace the headlight bulb, only touch the metal bulb holders located at the bottom. Wear sterile or clean mechanics gloves if you need to connect the glass. These gloves prevent oils, dirt, grime, and dust from being transferred to the coating on the exterior surface of the bulb. Dust particles, oil, or grease can damage the coating on the bulb’s surface. When you turn on your headlights, the dusty part of the light bulb will heat up much faster than the rest and crack.
Replace the cabin air filter in your car
Replace the cabin air filter in your car if you have a member of your family who is allergic to dust or other airborne particles. This is one of the easiest and most effective ways to ensure everyone in your car cabin feels safe and comfortable. Replace your cabin air filters every 12 months or after 12,000 miles, whichever is first. Refer to your owner’s guide to find the recommended air filter replacement schedule.
Check your AC’s refrigerant level
Knowing the refrigerant type you require before starting any A/C-related task is essential. The air conditioner must have the right amount of refrigerant, which keeps your car running smoothly. The air conditioner in your vehicle may not be blowing cold air, or you might hear a clicking sound coming from the engine. This means that the unit is most likely needing to be charged. It’s essential to maintain a properly functioning AC. Not only will it make the occupants of a car more comfortable, but it is also an excellent maintenance tip.