Tag: Vehicles
4 Keys To Extending The Life Of Your Car
by admin on Apr.30, 2010, under Car Maintenance, Car Tips
4 Keys To Extending The Life Of Your Car
As people continue to tighten their financial belts, many are looking to their vehicles in hopes of finding ways to save money. While the price of gasoline and your monthly auto insurance premiums may be beyond your control, you can influence the amount of money you spend on auto repairs. Over your car’s lifetime, you can save thousands of dollars.
The life of your automobile is a direct result of the maintenance and care you provide along the way. The more diligent you are, the longer it will last. This article will describe four keys to ensuring that your vehicle lasts as long as possible.
#1 – Change Your Oil And Replace The Air Filter
Two of the most important things you can do to extend the life of your engine is to periodically change the oil and replace the air filter. Oil is necessary to lubricate the moving parts of your engine. Over time, the oil breaks down and becomes less effective. While every vehicle is different, changing the oil every 5,000 miles is a good idea.
Your air filter captures dirt, debris, and particles that might otherwise damage your engine. Eventually, it will become clogged. When that happens, your engine is forced to work harder in order to receive the air it needs for efficient combustion. If you drive in an area that is exposed to a significant level of dust and dirt, check the filter every 5,000 miles. Otherwise, it should last 10,000 miles or more.
#2 – Check The Tire Pressure
Your tires are the only part of your car that makes contact with the ground. Given that, it’s surprising that most motorists devote very little attention to their upkeep. The most common problem is the pressure within the tires. If they are underinflated or overinflated, they might impact your fuel efficiency. They can even present a safety issue.
Check your tire pressure every few weeks. Keep them consistent with the psi recommended by your owner’s manual. If the treads wear thin, invest in a new set of tires.
#3 – Be A Smart Driver
Hard stops and quick starts can become a habit over time. The problem is that both can have a negative influence on your fuel efficiency, brake pads, and suspension. When you accelerate, do so gradually. Try to anticipate traffic lights and other stops to avoid slamming your brake pedal to the floorboard.
#4 – Follow The Manual’s Service Schedule
Your owner’s manual includes a maintenance schedule that is defined by the number of miles you’ve driven. For example, it might recommend visually inspecting the brake pads and discs at 25,000 miles. It might suggest checking the drive shaft boots and steering linkage at 50,000 miles. Follow this schedule. The automaker recommends the maintenance items because they know what it best for your vehicle’s health.
By keeping on top of your oil level and air filter, driving smart, and following the service intervals in your owner’s manual, you’ll extend the life of your car. And that can keep thousands of dollars in your bank account over the long run.