Keeping Up with Your Car Care: What and When You Should Be Inspecting
When it comes to cars and trucks, minor issues can become major mechanical problems in the blink of an eye. Thoroughly inspecting your vehicle as often as possible could help you avoid expensive repairs and dangerous accidents down the road. Here are some tips and tricks that you can use to thoroughly inspect some of the major components in your car or truck.
Air Filters
Most experts agree that cabin air filters should be replaced every 20,000 to 30,000 miles, but that is a general guideline. At least once a month, you should pop the air filter out and see if it is clogged or damaged. Whenever you check the cabin air filter, you might also want to take a look at the air filter in the engine compartment. Your engine air filter could last for two years or longer depending on where you live and how much you use your vehicle.
Tires
Your vehicle’s tires are exceptionally important, and a little bit of damage could result in a catastrophic blowout. It only takes a few minutes to inspect all of your tires, and that means you should try to take a look at them at least once a week. During that inspection, you need to look for issues such as discoloration, bulges, and cracks. There should also be plenty of tread on each tire, and you might not be rotating your tires often enough if the tread is uneven in certain locations.
Belts
Most serpentine and timing belts last for well over 40,000 miles, but you still need to inspect them every few weeks. Much like when you are inspecting your tires, you should look for unusual issues such as cracks and frayed edges. You will also need to turn the engine on to make sure that the belts don’t wobble when the pulleys are moving. Replacing old belts is a relatively easy project, but it could void your warranty if you have a newer vehicle.
Oil
Checking your vehicle’s oil is a simple process that won’t take more than a few minutes. Your owner’s manual should have clear instructions on how to inspect the oil, and you might need to check it as often as once a month. Some car manufacturers have replaced those dipsticks with electronic sensors that connect to an onboard computer. In those vehicles, a small light or symbol will appear on the instrument cluster if the oil is low or it needs to be changed.
If you ever have any questions about your vehicle, then you need to speak with a reputable mechanic. With so many working parts to your car, anything from the A/C to the turbo charger could malfunction. However, qualified professionals can help you come up with a long-term maintenance plan that keeps your car or truck running smoothly for years.
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