Cars are a crucial part of our daily life. It provides a convenient means of transportation and the freedom to travel wherever possible. However, regular maintenance is essential to keep a car running smoothly and reliably. One of the most important factors of car maintenance is servicing, which involves checking and replacing various parts to ensure the vehicle is in optimal condition, just like AIC technology which works to improve the vehicle’s fuel combustion.
This car maintenance guide will highlight the key things you should check when servicing your car to keep it in top shape and running smoothly for years to come.
Whether a seasoned car enthusiast or a beginner, this guide will provide the essential information to keep your car functioning at its best.
Things to Consider while Servicing your Car
This car maintenance guide will help you know everything you should know before servicing your car:
Engine Oil
Checking your engine oil is one of the most important things you can do when servicing your car. Your engine oil lubricates the moving parts in your engine, preventing wear and tear. Low engine oil levels or old and dirty engine oil can reduce engine lifespan and performance. It can also cause clogging in oil passages, leading to overheating and costly repairs. To check your engine oil, ensure your car is on level ground and the engine is cold. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and then pull it out again to check the oil level. The oil should be between the minimum and maximum marks. If it is low, top it up with the recommended oil. Also check if engine oil is dirty or old, and check the oil level and colour, consistency, and smell. Dark or gritty oil with a burnt smell should be changed promptly.
Air Filters
The air filter in your car prevents contaminants from entering the engine, but it can become clogged over time, reducing airflow and affecting performance. To check it, look under the hood, remove the cover, and inspect for dirt and debris. Replace the filter every 12,000-15000 miles, or more frequently if you often drive in dusty conditions. Remember that a dirty filter can affect fuel economy, acceleration, and engine performance, leading to more problems for your vehicle. Replacing the filter while servicing your car is a simple process; doing it regularly can help ensure your engine is running at its best.
Brake Pads and Discs
Brake pads and discs are essential parts of your car’s braking system. Worn brake pads can cause substantial upcoming losses for you, which can even damage the brake discs. Your brake discs should also be examined for wear and damage.To check the brake pads and discs, you can visually inspect the brake pads through the wheel spokes. They might need to be replaced if they are less than 1/4 inch thick.
If you notice any grooves, cracks, or other damage on your brake discs, replacing them is important to ensure optimal braking performance. It’s recommended to replace your brake pads regularly, at least every 10,000 to 20,000 miles or as per the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Engine Coolant/Brake Fluid
It is imperative to understand that engine coolant has to be replaced after some time because it losses its properties after running few thousand kilometres. And as well, by the manufacturer’s recommendation, you should be replacing or refilling the brake fluid too. To ensure these critical maintenance activities are completed, it is advisable to either stay in the observation bay or take your car to a service station where you can see them happening firsthand.
Tire Pressure
It is crucial to prioritise checking the tire pressure on your car servicing checklist, as it significantly impacts your vehicle’s performance and safety. The number marked on the tires indicates the maximum pressure the tires can hold. Therefore, ensuring that the tire pressure does not exceed this limit is vital, as overinflated tires can be hazardous, leading to a potential tire blowout! Remember to check the tire pressure while servicing your vehicle; neglecting this can be enough for an unwanted incident.
Lights are Working
Ensuring that your car’s lights are in proper working condition is crucial, yet it’s a task that is often neglected too. To ensure this critical safety measure is noticed, seek assistance from another person to conduct a thorough check. Sit in your car, activate all the lights and signals, and then get a confirmation that they are functioning correctly. Another helpful tip is to park your vehicle in front of a flat surface to verify that both headlights are working properly and are positioned appropriately.
Spark Plugs
The purpose of the spark plugs in your car is to ignite the fuel and air mixture that powers the engine. Your engine may not operate at peak performance when they’re not functioning correctly. If you notice any issues with your engine’s performance, it’s essential to have a professional inspect your spark plugs for any faults that need to be addressed. Additionally, replacing your spark plugs every 50,000 km is recommended to ensure they’re in good working condition.
Serpentine Belt
The small yet salient rubber piece, called the serpentine belt in your car, plays a vital role in powering peripheral components, such as the alternator, power steering pump, air conditioner compressor and sometimes the water pump. To prevent any potential problems in future, a mechanic must perform a routine inspection of the belt or check for any signs of cracking or wear and tear. It’s also essential to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for your vehicle and replace the belt as recommended to maintain optimal performance.
Shocks and Struts
The shocks and struts in your car play an impactful role in managing the effects of speed bumps and potholes on the road, and they are integral to your vehicle’s steering system. Having these components examined by a professional every 12000 miles or whenever you experience declining driving comfort or a sense of reduced control is recommended to ensure your car is doing well.
Car Battery
The car battery is a critical component necessary for the proper functioning of your vehicle. It provides electrical power to the car’s starter, engine, and other electronic accessories. The battery’s performance can be affected by extreme temperatures, so it’s essential to conduct regular battery testing to ensure it performs optimally when needed. While servicing your car, always make sure to have a battery check. Some workshops offer a complimentary battery health check during servicing, while others require a specific request for this service.
Conclusion
We really hope that this car maintenance guide will help you understand that you should service your vehicle after a particular time. The most important factors in the car maintenance guide include changing engine oil/ brake fluid, replacing brake pads/ discs, spark plugs and shocks and struts etc. Hence it proved that servicing your car regularly is crucial for keeping it in top shape and ensuring its longevity. By paying attention to the essential components we discussed, you can avoid costly repairs down the road and enjoy a safe and comfortable driving experience. Remember, neglecting your car’s maintenance can lead to unexpected breakdowns and inconvenience, but taking good care of it can result in a reliable and smooth ride. So, don’t wait any longer – schedule your next car service today and stay on top of these essential checks! Please stay connected with us for more information.