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VEHICLE MAINTENANCE
UCRC
Created on February 26, 2025
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Transcript
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE
Proper vehicle maintenance is essential for responsible drivers: it helps extend the life of your car, saves you money, and ensures your safety and the safety of others.
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Explore the car icons for more maintenance tips.
CAR MAINTENANCE TIPS
Wash your car!
From road salt in winter to tree sap in summer, and bird droppings year-round, your car’s exterior goes through a lot. These things not only look bad but can also cause serious damage to the car body (rust, paint damage, stains, etc.). Wash your car regularly, either by hand or at a local car wash. If you live in an area with road salt or near the ocean, wash the undercarriage regularly to prevent rust from damaging vital parts under your vehicle. Consider waxing your car twice a year to add a layer of protection against the elements. A shiny, well-maintained car will make you happy and be good for your wallet if you decide to sell it!
CAR MAINTENANCE TIPS
Check the tire pressure and rotate the tires.
Well-maintained tires are important not only for safety but also for your wallet. Open the driver's side door and look at the label along the frame. This label will tell you the correct PSI (pounds per square inch) needed to properly inflate the tires. Your car manual may also have this information. Properly inflated tires provide better gas mileage and extend the life of the tires, saving you money! Every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, you should rotate your tires. This means moving the front tires to the back and the back tires to the front. Doing so helps your tires wear evenly, last longer, and ensures the tread depth is safe for the road. Here’s a trick to check if it’s time to replace your tires: 1. Place a U.S. penny upside down into a tread groove in various spots on the tire. 2. Examine how much of the coin is visible. If you can see the top of President Lincoln’s head, your tread is too low and may be unsafe. It’s time to replace your tires!
CAR MAINTENANCE TIPS
Brakes!
Brakes are essential for your safety and that of others on the road. They should be checked regularly to ensure your car is safe to drive. Listen carefully while driving. Do you hear a noise when pressing the brake pedal? Does the car shake or vibrate? These are warning signs of a brake issue. Visit a mechanic as soon as possible. Your vehicle’s braking system includes more than just the brake pads. The discs, calipers, and hoses that control the brakes also need to be inspected to ensure safe operation.
CAR MAINTENANCE TIPS
Interior maintenance
Inside a car, usually behind the glove box, there’s an access door to the cabin air filter. Check the filter. If it’s full of dirt, bugs, and other debris, it’s time for a replacement. Keep this filter clean to avoid inhaling dust, pollen, and pollutants inside your vehicle.Take time to clean the car interior occasionally. You’ll appreciate driving in a clean car, and the seat fabric and other interior parts will last longer. Also, when you sell a clean car, you can get more money!
CAR MAINTENANCE TIPS
What should you check under the hood?
A dirty engine air filter lets dirt into the engine and reduces car performance. Change the air filter approximately every 15,000-30,000 miles but check your car’s manual for more information. Take your car to an auto parts store or mechanic to have your battery checked every 6-12 months. A dead battery can leave you stranded and frustrated! Inspect your engine monthly for signs of leaks or damage to hoses or belts that may be fraying or deteriorating. Catching a problem early can save you thousands on expensive repairs!
CAR MAINTENANCE TIPS
Check the headlights and taillights.
A broken or burned-out bulb isn’t just an inconvenience, it’s a major safety concern. Others on the road won’t be able to see you or know your intentions if a headlight is out or a turn signal doesn’t work. If a light is out, it may be due to a burned-out bulb or a blown fuse. In severe cases, it may be an electrical issue. A mechanic can help you replace/repair bulbs safely. Have a friend or family member walk around your vehicle with the lights on. Press the brakes, activate the signals, and put the car in reverse to make sure no light is burned out.
CAR MAINTENANCE TIPS
Check and replace windshield wipers.
If your wipers aren’t doing a good job clearing your windshield in the rain, it may be time to get new ones.You may need to replace your wipers every six months or less. Inspect the rubber blades; if they appear worn or damaged, it’s time to replace them. Check your vehicle’s manual for the correct size. Some auto parts stores will install wiper blades for free if you purchase the blades at their business.
Check regularly:
- Oil level
- Windshield washer fluid
- Coolant
- Power steering fluid
- Brake fluid
- Transmission fluid
- Engine air filter