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All Just about Automobile CareCar Care Tips for Students and Parents
by:
ARA
(ARA) - Parents and students wish do well to get their vehicles in shape before winter arrives, according to the pros and the noncommercial
National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Many a 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 1st -- See your owner’s instructions and follow the manufacturer’s advisable
service schedules.
Engine Performance -- Get engine driveability problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) corrected at a nice repair shop. Cold weather wish do existing problems worse. Replace dirty filters—air, fuel, PCV, etc.
Fuel -- Put a bottle of fuel de-icer in your tank once a month to help support wetness
from chilling in the fuel line. Note, too, that a gas tank that’s unbroken
filled helps prevent wetness
from forming.
Oil -- Change your oil and oil filter as given in your instructions -- more often (every 3,000 miles or so) if your drive 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 agent
should be checked periodically. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water is commonly recommended.) If you’re doing your own work, ne'er
move out 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 automobile technician.
Heater/Defroster -- The heater and heater must be in nice working condition for traveller
comfort and driver visibility.
Windshield Wipers -- Replace old blades. If your climate is harsh, purchase rubber-clad (winter) blades to fight ice build-up. Stock up on screen
washer solvent; you’ll be astonied how more you use. Carry an ice-scraper.
Battery -- The only accurate way to discover a weak battery is with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clear 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 several 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; sporadically
clear road grime from all lenses. To prevent scratching, ne'er
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 -- Worn tires wish be of little use in winter weather. 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 nice 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.
For more car care tips, visit www.ase.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content
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Courtesy of ARA Content
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