We invest a great deal of money into our vehicles, and apart from a house, a car might be the most expensive item that we will buy. Keeping your vehicle running smoothly can save you money in repairs and maintenance, and will be safer for you and your family. We recommend that you always use a certified and qualified mechanic or technician to service your car – this ensures the best possible results, and can help maintain your vehicle’s warranty. However, there are some things you can do to keep your car running smoothly. Safety Basics Please refer to your owner’s manual before you start any maintenance, as it will contain vital information specific to your vehicle. Have the right tools for the job. It can be dangerous for both you and your vehicle if you try to use the wrong tools. Know how to handle chemicals. Oil and gasoline are dangerous materials, and should never touch your skin. If you’re cleaning any part of your engine at home, keep a drainage pan under the engine to capture any residue and follow local ordinances regarding disposal of engine oil and related liquids. Parking brake should be on, and the gearshift should be in park. Do not work on a hot engine! If you’re not sure about any aspect of a repair or maintenance procedure, please consult a professional mechanic or technician. Things to keep an eye on… Air Filter Air filters steadily build up with dirt and dust, making sure that it doesn’t get into your engine. Eventually, your air filter will get blocked (if it does, your ‘Check Engine’ light may come on), reducing performance. If the filter is only slightly dirty (it will appear slightly discolored), you can give it a quick clean by tapping it, bottom side down, against a hard surface. Battery Check your connections to make sure they are not corroded, and keep the casing of the battery clean. Cracks or bulges indicate that you might need to replace the battery. If you find corrosion on the terminals, you can try to clean it carefully with a mixture of baking soda and water, and a stiff (non-metal bristled) brush. Rinse the terminals with clean water, and make sure you’re catching the run off in a tray. Windshield Wipers Properly working wiper blades are an essential part of safe driving. Make sure they are clean and intact. You can clean the blades using a mild detergent and a paper towel. If the blades look worn, they are fairly easy to replace. You can either replace the rubber blade or the entire arm. Fluids Before you check fluid levels, make sure the car is on a level surface. Checking the levels of your vehicles various fluids can be a great way of ensuring your vehicle’s health. Make sure that the caps are clean and free of dirt and debris before opening them to check levels – you don’t want anything getting into the fluids. Windshield washing fluid is easy to replace, and you should always carry spare washer fluid in your trunk. Don’t fill the reservoir all the way during cold weather, just in case it freezes. Other fluids, such as engine coolant, brake fluid and power steering fluid, should be checked and replaced by a professional.
