Whether you have a brand new car or a second hand vehicle, there are many car maintenance tips you should be aware of. Some of these include things like replacing a tail light, checking your power steering fluid, and making sure your tires are at the right pressures.
Check tire pressures once a month
Keeping your car in good condition requires that you regularly check your tire pressures. You can do this by using a tire pressure gauge. These can be bought at a local auto parts store.
The tire pressure should be checked before driving, especially if you’ve recently had a long trip. It’s also good to check your tires every month. This can save you a lot of money and keep your car safe.
If you’re driving in cold weather, your tire pressures can drop by up to 5 PSI. You can find out the pressure recommended by your tire manufacturer by looking in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
During warm weather, the air pressure inside your tire will expand. It’s important to adjust your pressure according to the size of your car and the load it’s carrying. This will also reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
Check power steering fluid level
Having a power steering fluid level that is too low can cause problems with your steering wheel. The fluid is required to make the steering wheel turn in the direction that is necessary. The low level can also indicate a leak or hose that has come loose. If you notice a leak, it’s best to have a professional check it out.
Power steering fluid is stored in a reservoir that is underneath your hood. The reservoir is usually made of plastic, though it may be metal. You can easily see the level of fluid by checking the reservoir.
Checking the fluid is an easy way to make your vehicle easier to drive. It can also save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars over time.
Replace a tail light
Whether your tail light is broken or you just want to change the appearance of the tail light, replacing the bulb can be a simple process. The first step is to disconnect the car battery. This will allow you to work on the wires without causing a shock. The next step is to remove the tail light bulb assembly.
This assembly will have electric connection lines stamped into it. It is usually made of plastic, and may have nuts and clips. Once the old bulb is removed, the wiring harness will be connected to the new bulb.
Once the new bulb has been installed, the tail light assembly should be tested. You will need to check that all bulbs light up properly. It is also a good idea to check that the new bulb fits in the socket properly.
Check brake pads
Taking time to check brake pads can help you avoid a scary situation. Wear and tear on the brakes can occur due to factors like road conditions, driving style, and the weight of your car. If you have any brake concerns, it is best to have them checked by a mechanic as soon as possible.
If you hear a rumbling growl, squeak, or a screeching sound when you press the brake pedal, it may be time to have your brakes checked. This is an indication that your brakes are wearing down and you need to replace them.
Usually, brake pads wear out between 25,000 and 60,000 miles. However, this varies depending on the make and model of your vehicle. In mountainous areas, you may need to replace your brakes more frequently.
Maintain the exterior of your car
Keeping the exterior of your car clean is an important part of your vehicle maintenance routine. This is because the car’s exterior is exposed to natural elements, such as rain and wind, as well as a variety of other pollutants. As such, keeping your car’s exterior in great shape is important to maintaining your vehicle’s value.
One of the best ways to keep the exterior of your car in good shape is to wash it. This helps remove loose dirt and debris. Washing your car regularly also helps to prevent rusting, which can cause your car’s paint to fade.
Another way to maintain the exterior of your car is to wax it. This helps to protect the exterior from sun damage, sand and water. Investing in a car cover can also protect your car from the elements.