When purchasing a vehicle, the new owner commits a significant amount of time and money. People need vehicles to drive to work, take their kids to school and run errands. A car may only need a check up every few months, but there is more to maintaining an automobile than taking it to the local technician. There are many ways to elongate the life of a vehicle and most are fairly simple and hassle free. Just be observant and don't wait to make repairs or replace malfunctioning parts.
First, watch over the battery closely. Especially in cold temperatures, owners will find the battery feels less powerful than in warmer months. In freezing weather conditions, the power source has about half of its usual cranking power. For a traditional battery, carefully remove the plastic caps and check the fluid. If the fluid is at a low level, add distilled water. For unconventional batteries like those found in hybrid cars, frequently check the displayed gauge. After about five years, the power source may not keep charge or show other signs of weakness. It should be replaced accordingly.
Inexperienced drivers and car owners often forget to check their oil regularly, but oil maintenance is one of the easiest and most effective ways to maintain a vehicle. Depending on the season, it may be appropriate to use a winter or summer safe formula. Winter oil products are typically labeled with a W, but for those who prefer to have technicians change the oil, simply ask for a cold weather safe product. Be sure to replace the filter as well to facilitate maximum flow.
After checking the oil, focus on the tires. Avoid driving in a way that increases stress on the tread. Make slow turns and take plenty of time to accelerate or decelerate. Sometimes, roads will have potholes or other miscellaneous debris. Where possible, safely circumvent these items. Nails or any small sharp object can get lodged in the tires and cause a leak or flat. Check the air pressure regularly to detect problems early. Follow the car manual guidelines on tire rotation and care, but continue to monitor the tread in case the tires should be replaced sooner than average.
When purchasing a new car, allow for a break in period over the first 1,000 miles on the road. The manual may recommend some limitations regarding speed, idle time or weight. Furthermore, the vehicle will need to warm up during the first 10 to 15 minutes of driving. This short window is responsible for the majority of engine wear so avoid excessive stress.
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First, watch over the battery closely. Especially in cold temperatures, owners will find the battery feels less powerful than in warmer months. In freezing weather conditions, the power source has about half of its usual cranking power. For a traditional battery, carefully remove the plastic caps and check the fluid. If the fluid is at a low level, add distilled water. For unconventional batteries like those found in hybrid cars, frequently check the displayed gauge. After about five years, the power source may not keep charge or show other signs of weakness. It should be replaced accordingly.
Inexperienced drivers and car owners often forget to check their oil regularly, but oil maintenance is one of the easiest and most effective ways to maintain a vehicle. Depending on the season, it may be appropriate to use a winter or summer safe formula. Winter oil products are typically labeled with a W, but for those who prefer to have technicians change the oil, simply ask for a cold weather safe product. Be sure to replace the filter as well to facilitate maximum flow.
After checking the oil, focus on the tires. Avoid driving in a way that increases stress on the tread. Make slow turns and take plenty of time to accelerate or decelerate. Sometimes, roads will have potholes or other miscellaneous debris. Where possible, safely circumvent these items. Nails or any small sharp object can get lodged in the tires and cause a leak or flat. Check the air pressure regularly to detect problems early. Follow the car manual guidelines on tire rotation and care, but continue to monitor the tread in case the tires should be replaced sooner than average.
When purchasing a new car, allow for a break in period over the first 1,000 miles on the road. The manual may recommend some limitations regarding speed, idle time or weight. Furthermore, the vehicle will need to warm up during the first 10 to 15 minutes of driving. This short window is responsible for the majority of engine wear so avoid excessive stress.
To learn more about an auto body repair shop in Raleigh, visit this website.
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