Maintenance + Repair
The Most Overlooked Vehicle Maintenance Issues
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As many readers have probably figured out by now, one of my favourite topics to harp on is maintenance. Just like us not going to the doctor, an auto not going to the mechanic can lead to complications down the line. Below, we’ll take a look at the most overlooked maintenance issues with vehicles and what you can do to remedy such situations.
Tires
After the drive train, the tires on your car or truck are next in line in order of importance for a properly functioning vehicle. Let’s face it, without tires we wouldn’t be able to go anywhere in our autos. But there are those of us out there who fail to properly take care of our tires or have them replaced when they are worn down. There is nothing worse than having a flat or a complete blow out on the side of busy interstate or highway. However, with proper care and a vigilant eye, you won’t have to worry about such a nightmare scenario.
The best way to judge the condition of your tires is to give them a simple inspection on a weekly basis. No, it doesn’t involve taking them off the vehicle or anything, but rather a simple look over. While doing the inspection, ensure that there aren’t any unnatural wear spots and if the tread is still nice and “thick.” To get the most life out of your tires, have them rotated every 10,000 miles at the maximum. Rotating your tires will ensure that they wear evenly. Also, be sure to check the pressure on each of your tires on a weekly basis, especially when it is cold out. Under inflated tires can cut down on your gas mileage as well as causing all of your tires to wear down faster.
Brakes
Next in line in order of importance are the brakes on your auto. Simply put, without brakes none of us would be able to stop and that would make for an even more hectic world. Depending on your knowledge of autos, it can be a bit tricky to visually inspect your brakes. Nevertheless, you can ensure that your brakes are in good shape by simply driving your auto. A few things to keep in mind while driving include listening for odd noises such as high pitched squeaking noises while stopping and how responsive the brakes are when you put your foot on the peddle. If you have to basically smash the peddle to the floor, chances are that you need new brakes. Usually though, a good mechanic will inspect your brakes if you take your car or truck in for an oil change.
Headlights
Another commonly neglected item on our autos are the headlights. Obviously, we need headlights to see at night and unless you like to live dangerously, it is a good idea to keep an eye on them. Furthermore, you would be surprised at the number of injuries and fatalities incurred by pedestrians due to faulty headlights on a yearly basis. To avoid such matters, it is a good idea to give your headlights a visual inspection every now and then (i.e. get out once you’ve started the car and ensure that they are both working). If your lights pass that test, another telltale sign of a bad headlight is the fact that they have started to dim. If this is the case or you find that one light has gone out, replace both lights at the same time. If the task seems a bit daunting, bring your auto to your favourite mechanic for a quick swap.
Wipers
Windshield wipers are probably the most neglected part of the majority of autos on the road today. The rubber blades on the wipers become worn down due to friction with the windshield glass. It is recommended that you change the wipers out every six months. If that is a bit much, at least be sure to change them out before winter. A mechanic or dealership will do the job for you, but just about anyone can go to their local auto parts store and pick up the correct set with the help of a customer service representative. From there, simply follow the instructions on the back of the package and you’ll be good to go the next time it rains or snows.
Stay On Top Of It
As most of us know by now, a well maintained auto is a happy and happy auto leads to a happy driver. However, there are those out there that on occasion neglect our autos and fail to give them the proper maintenance to keep them going in a “healthy” manner. Be a smart vehicle owner and get your auto checked out on a regular basis.
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