Car Care Tips – IMPORTANT for Students and Parents
Many of us did not care about how to be a good car owner that cares the car well. Please consider this main important things at least and your car will run smoothly wihout any problems. Our tips before are in Malay but now we have change to new version in english.
According to the pros and the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Many breakdowns can be avoided entirely by routine maintenance. The following tips from ASE should give parent and student alike a road map to fall car care.
First things first — Read your owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedules.
Engine Performance — Get engine driveability problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) corrected at a good repair shop. Cold weather will make existing problems worse. Replace dirty filters—air, fuel, PCV, etc.
Oil — Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual — more often (every 5000KM or so) if your driving is mostly stop-and-go or consists of frequent short trips.
Cooling System — The cooling system should be flushed and refilled as recommended. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. If you’re doing your own work, never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled! The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked by a certified auto technician.
Windshield Wipers — Replace old blades. Stock up on windshield washer solvent. Get a new silicon wiper instead of stock rubber wiper because it last longer than the rubber type of wiper. Believe me, it costs you less in long term as you will not replace it frequently untill 5 years and more and it provide clearer wipe off rain. Buy a rain repellant such as rain-x or rain fly. Its very recommended and good for your visuality during rainy day even without the use of wiper.
Battery — The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check fluid level monthly.
A word of caution: Removal of cables can cause damage or loss of data/codes on some newer vehicles. Check your manual. Be sure to avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.
Lights — Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; periodically clean road grime from all lenses. To prevent scratching, never use a dry rag.
Exhaust System — Your vehicle should be placed on a lift and the exhaust system examined for leaks. The trunk and floorboards should be inspected for small holes. Exhaust fumes can be deadly.
Tires — Examine tires for remaining tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Check tire pressure once a month. Let the tires “cool down” before checking the pressure. Rotate as recommended. Don’t forget your spare, and be sure the jack is in good condition.
Emergencies — Carry gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter, tire chains, a flashlight, and a cell phone. Put a few “high-energy” snacks in your glove box.
Jom komen!