A car is quite an important possession. Perhaps you’d like to learn a little bit more about cars. If that’s what you want, read on to learn about simple maintenance.
Make sure that you do not neglect the radiator in your car. You need to allow your car to run for a couple of minutes, shut down the engine and then open up the hood. You never want to open up the radiator if your car is still running. Use a dipstick to check the amount of fluid in the radiator. You should also make sure to mix coolant fluid with water before you pour it into your radiator.
You don’t always have to call a mechanic when your car is giving your problems. There are a few things that you can fix easily yourself. If you’re feeling lucky, look online to figure out the problem. If it is not a very difficult job, you can save some money by doing the repairs yourself.
You don’t want rust to attack your car so take the time to wash it on a regular basis. Cars eventually rust, but you can put off the process by washing off chemicals or salt quickly. Wax is also important.
Before bringing your car to a mechanic, attempt to figure out by yourself what’s wrong. A bit of money can be saved in this way, and you may stay away from fraudulent people. Mechanics sometimes will cost you an arm and a leg for unnecessary repairs.
A spare tire and a jack need to be in your vehicle all of the time. Many new cars have these. You wouldn’t want to get a simple flat and have to shell out lots of money to a tow truck. It is cheaper and easier when you do it on your own.
Keep a tool kit for doing auto repairs in your trunk. You need to have tools to change a tire, which have come along with your car. Get a lug wrench and jack if you do not have one yet. Then have a screwdriver kit, socket wrench kit, ratchet set, torque wrench and adjustable wrench, too. Don’t waste your money on bad quality tools. Choose tools which will last the test of time, especially when they’re required.
Before taking your car in, ask friends for referrals. Your loved ones may give you some recommendations to simplify your search. It is still important to do your homework. At least look for reviews online.
Keep washing your car throughout the winter. Winter is when your car becomes most damaged. Salt and sand can tear away at the surface of your car. Take care to dry your vehicle before driving it again. You wouldn’t want ice to form.
Always keep in mind that attempting auto repair on your own has its share of hazards. Always have a buddy to help you. Buying tools that are higher quality is worth it. You’ll especially need good equipment for changing tires. Do not forget that you are relying on your jack to support your car while you work beneath it. That’s why sometimes it’s best to get a hydraulic jack that comes with jack stands that are approved.
Read your owner’s manual when you get a new car. You should read your manual all the way through at least once. In it, the manufacturer informs you of the essentials for keeping your car in good running condition. It can even help you with simple repairs.
Test Drive
Bleed your brakes before taking your car out on a test drive after servicing has been done. Then pump the brake pedal to distribute brake fluid. Test for leaks to be sure the fluid won’t run out. You can then test drive your vehicle on an empty road. Do not accelerate until you are sure your brakes work well.
OEM is the Manufacturer’s Original Equipment. Remember this when you have need to have parts on your vehicle replaced. When you tell your mechanic that OEM parts are what you want, you sound like you have some knowledge. It is not as likely that a technician will attempt to put used parts upon your automobile.
As you can now see, it’s important that you take care of your vehicle. Even knowing how to do simple maintenance may save you tons of money instead of going to a mechanic. Apply this advice when car issues hit, and you will be just fine.