The most significant part of road safety is to maintain your vehicle. For novice drivers, the importance of this maintenance may not be as clear and they may unnecessarily land up for an auto repair and service in California. As you wish to get out on the open road and experience freedom you want to make sure your tires are in workable condition and your oil is keeping your engine safe.
To that end, the auto care experts occupied with car repair in California have a few valuable tips that can help first-time drivers enjoy this freedom by taking better care of their car.
Check & Replace Your Wiper Blades
If the rain or snow starts falling, you must be able to see. You require wiper blades that are in good condition. Blades are made of rubber and will wear out over time and exposure to the elements. Old wiper blades will leave streaks that are challenging to view through and can even scratch your windshield. It’s good to test your blades each month or so applying a brief spritz of your washer fluid. Replace your blades at least once a year, possibly twice, depending on how much you use them. Take time to learn to change your wiper blades. It’s an easy job you can do without any tools.
Change Your Oil Frequently
Every engine necessitates frequent oil changes. The oil keeps the various parts of your engine moving cohesively with the least friction. Over time, oil becomes dirty and must be changed to keep your engine healthy. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual instead of visiting smog test centers in California to find out how often your manufacturer recommends servicing your oil. Most contemporary cars recommend oil changes between every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, but few engines can go for 7,000 miles or more between changes.
Rotate Your Tires & Check Air Pressure
Your tires are probably the most crucial factor in how your vehicle drives down the road. Your tires keep your vehicle connected to the road, letting you turn, accelerate, and brake safely. Worn-out tires risk blowing out, don’t handle as they usually would, and even present an increased risk in bad weather. It’s a fair idea to rotate your tires every time you change your oil. Similarly, you should have your alignment checked annually to ensure your steering is straight and your tires are rolling perfectly flat with the road below for maximum traction and functionality.
Check Your Battery’s Charge
A dead battery can leave you wrecked anywhere, and to make matters worse it can sneak up on you without any symptoms of wear and tear. Though most batteries have warranties that last as long as five or six years, it’s not uncommon for batteries to only last around two or three years before necessitating replacement. While changing your oil, do check your battery’s voltage. If you observe voltage dropping significantly, the time may be nearing for the replacement of your battery.
Replace Worn-Down Brake Pads
Your brakes are responsible to keep you safe by bringing your vehicle to a stop. Most vehicles apply disc brakes–ceramic pads that press against a metal disc to stop your car. The ceramic pads will wear down over time, so they must be replaced. It’s better to check the thickness of your brake pads each time you rotate your tires and always change them when they begin getting too worn.
Replace Your Air Filter
Your air filter is responsible to remove debris from the air that’s pumped into your engine. Once you rack up the miles on your car, your air filter will become inundated with this debris and must be replaced. Change your air filter every 15,000 to 20,000 miles. However, you may have to do so sooner if you drive through dusty locations or areas with poor air quality. At least, check your air filter each time you change your oil.
Check Hoses & Belts
There’s a possibility that your first car isn’t new. Driving an older car means you must pay more attention to its maintenance. Air hoses, and timing and serpentine belts ideally last up to 60,000 miles or more, but can and will normally bother you after that.
Monitor these parts and look for symptoms of wear and tear. A broken timing belt can jeopardize your entire engine and leave you helpless. Even a small leak in one of your hoses can have disastrous consequences. A simple visual check is enough every time you change your oil.
Replace Old Spark Plugs
Your spark plugs are small parts with a big job, that wear out over time. They must be replaced every 60,000-75,000 miles, depending on your car. When one or more spark plugs aren't functioning, your engine must work harder, leading to inconsistent performance. Get the spark plugs regularly inspected and replace any that are dying or totally burnt out. By doing so, your engine will run more smoothly and your vehicle will last longer.
Whether you’re an experienced driver or just a beginner, these car maintenance tips are necessary for your long drive in the long run. Enjoy your ride, but with caution and check-ups.
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