How to Maintain Your Vehicle Between Services
It's important to keep your car well-maintained if you want it to last as long as possible. Unfortunately, many people don't know how to properly maintain their vehicle and end up causing more damage than good. Don't worry, we’re going to discuss some tips on how to maintain your car between services (even without lots of car experience!).
Tire Pressures and Tread Depth
One of the most important, and easiest, things you can do to maintain your car is to check the tire pressure and tread depth regularly. You can check your car's tire pressure with a tire pressure gauge (most gas stations have these for free). Simply insert the gauge into the valve stem on your tire and see what the reading says.
As for tread depth, you can use a penny to check this. Place the penny into the tread of your tire with Lincoln's head facing down. If you can see all of Lincoln's head, then your tread depth is shallow and you should replace your tires. If only part of Lincoln's head is visible, then your tread depth is okay.
Oil Levels
Another maintenance tip is to check your car's oil level and quality regularly. You can do this by opening the hood of your car and finding the dipstick. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag; from here, re-insert the dipstick all the way back in, then pull it out again to check the oil level. The dipstick will have markings that show you whether your oil level is low, full, or needs to be changed.
If it's time to change your oil, you'll need to find the oil filter and unscrew it. Then, you can screw on a new oil filter and fill up your car's engine with fresh oil. Be sure to check your car's owner's manual to find out what type of oil is best for your car.
Screen Wash
While it might sound simple, making sure your screen wash is topped up is an important part of keeping your car running smoothly. In the winter months, it's especially important to have plenty of screen wash as it helps to prevent your windscreen from freezing over.
Windscreen Wipers
Next, take a look at your windscreen wipers. Are they in good condition? If they're starting to look worn, it's time to replace them. This is a simple job that you can do yourself, and it's important to do it before they stop working properly. What if you get caught in the rain with windscreen wipers that don't work? Not only will you not be able to see where you're going, but you could also cause an accident.
Brakes and Steering
Finally, it's important to check the brakes and steering. These are two of the most important safety features on your vehicle, so they must be in good working order. Does the brake feel spongy or slack? If so, it's time to get them serviced. The same goes for the steering. If it feels loose or unstable, you need to visit a professional. Likewise, you might find that the steering pulls to one side.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your vehicle is safe and roadworthy between services. Of course, we also recommend auto repairs and services from a reliable company - this includes Arrowhead Imports. Feel free to call us to book a service or repair today!
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