How to maintain your new car
One of the reassuring qualities of contemporary cars is that they require much less frequent service to keep them running well. Changing spark plugs, breakpoints and condenser used to be a seasonal exercise, and body rust was accepted as a normal, if unfortunate, hazard of aging. Now many spark plugs can go 100,000 miles between changes. The electronic ignition has eliminated the points and the condenser. Chassis, suspensions and even some transmissions are lubricated for life. And factory warranties against rust typically last six years or more. Also, reliability has improved significantly. The result is that most late-model cars and trucks should be able to get 200,000 miles with regular maintenance.
When you buy a new car, you may ask how to maintain your new car and you want to extend the life of your car.
Here are some simple, regular checkups and procedures you can do that will help you get there.
- Check the engine oil
The first key way to keep your car looking new is to check your engine oil regularly on a monthly basis for a vehicle in good condition; more often if you notice an oil leak or routinely need to add oil. The car must be parked on level ground so you can get an accurate reading from the dipstick. Do not overfill. And if you have a leak, find it and fix it soon.
- Check tire air pressure
The second key way to maintain your new car is to check the tire pressure once a month, and before any extended road trip, use an accurate tire pressure gauge to check the inflation pressure in each tire. including the spare. Do this when the tires are cold (before the vehicle has been driven or after no more than a couple of miles of driving). Use the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended inflation pressure, not the maximum pressure stamped on the sidewall of the tire. The recommended pressure is usually found on a plate on a front door frame, in the glove box, or in the owner’s manual. Also be sure to inspect the tires for abnormal or uneven wear, cuts, and any sidewall bulges you can see.
- give it a wash
The third key way to keep your car looking new is to try to wash it every week, if you can. Wash the body and, if necessary, hose down the fenders and undercarriage to remove dirt and road salt. It’s time to wax the finish when the water droplets are larger than a quarter.
Meanwhile, when your car runs for 200,000 miles, there are other things you need to pay attention to.
For normal driving, many automakers recommend changing the engine oil and filter every 7,500 miles or six months, whichever comes first. This is enough for most motorists. For “extreme” driving (with frequent cold starts and short trips, dusty conditions, or trailer towing), the change interval should be reduced to every 3,000 miles or three months. (Check your owner’s manual for the specific intervals recommended for your vehicle.) Special engines, such as diesel and turbocharged engines, may require more frequent oil changes.
- Check the air filter
Remove the air cleaner element and hold it up to a strong light. If you don’t see light, replace it. Regardless, follow the recommended service intervals.
- Check constant velocity joint boots
On front-wheel drive and some four-wheel drive vehicles, check out these bellows-shaped rubber boots, also known as CV boots, on the drive axles. Immediately replace any that are cut, cracked, or leaking. If dirt contaminates the CV joint, it can quickly lead to an expensive repair.
- Check the exhaust system
If you’re willing to do under-the-car inspections, check for rusted exhaust parts that need to be replaced. Also tighten loose clamps. Do this while the car is on the ramps. If a shop changes your oil, ask them to do these checks. Hear the changes in the sound of the exhaust as you drive. In general, it is advisable to replace the entire exhaust system at once instead of repairing sections at different times.
- look at the brakes
For most people, it makes sense to have your brakes checked and repaired by a shop. If you handle your own brake job, remove all wheels and examine the brake system. Replace excessively worn pads or linings, and have badly scored rotors or drums machined or replaced. Brakes should be checked at least twice a year; more often if you drive many miles.
- check the fluids
In many new cars, the automatic transmission is sealed. On non-sealed cars, check the transmission dipstick with the engine warm and running (see owner’s manual for details). Also check the power steering pump dipstick (it is usually attached to the fluid reservoir cap) and the level in the brake fluid reservoir. If the brake fluid level is low, top it off and have the system checked for leaks.
- clean the radiator
Avoid overheating by removing debris with a soft brush and washing the exterior of the radiator with a detergent solution.
- check the battery
Check the battery terminals and cables to make sure they are well connected, without corrosion. If the battery has removable caps, check its fluid level every few months, especially in warmer climates.
In addition, it is necessary to carry out periodic cleaning of the carbon from the engine. It will promote your car ownership. Therefore, we recommend HHO Carbon Clean Machine.
