Car maintenance is essential to make sure your car functions at an optimal capacity and that you do not run into a load of bills when you take it to a mechanic. Here are three car maintenance Dos and Don’ts to ensure that your car is working effectively:
Car Maintenance Do’s
- Do look at the warning lights on your car dashboard
Modern car electronics are built in such a way that you’re alerted when the essential parts of your car have an issue. Through 15 various warning lights, you can tell when there are problems with your battery, brake, fluid level, engine, etc. Hence, it is essential to check your dashboard regularly and know how to interpret it. The lights to look out for are usually amber, yellow, or red. Consult your vehicle’s producer manual to learn what to look out for.
- Do pump air in your tires when you notice a flat
As part of frequent maintenance, it is advisable that you put air into your tires weekly and before embarking on long journeys. Cars usually lose pressure when they move on bad roads with many bumps and potholes. The usually advised pound per square inch level in a standard hatchback is around 30-35 PSI. Most times, you can find the specific pressure you need on the door of the driver-side panel.
- Do hit brakes gently
When pressing brakes, gradual movements are advised to prevent wearing out the braking system, especially brake pads. Sudden hitting of brakes creates an enormous amount of heat, thus wearing brake pads sooner. It is proven that a brake pad will last for a maximum of 50,000 miles, but this life span drops significantly if you frequently brake with force.
Car Maintenance Don’ts
- Don’t hit speed bumps and potholes
Avoid hitting speed bumps and potholes to ensure your car works well. If you fail to steer clear away from potholes, your alloys may crack, your wheels will be adversely affected, and your wheel balancing will be disturbed. Hitting speed bumps at high speed is even more damaging. You may destroy the rear and front bumper of the vehicle and the exhaust system and underside.
- Please don’t put too much load on your vehicle
Overloading your car is bad for its health. The extra weight on your car can not only cause tires to wear badly but also overheat. This causes significant danger to road users, including you. Typically, your car’s manual will specify the maximum weight your vehicle can carry.
- Don’t put the wrong fuel in your vehicle
Doing this will cost a lot of money to remedy. Putting petrol in a Diesel engine will add to friction between the engine’s moving components, leading to costly destruction if you begin to drive with it in the fuel tank. Avoid starting the engine of your vehicle if you ever misfuel. You can also install a misfuelling device to prevent problems.
In conclusion, different cars have manuals containing guidelines and warnings. It is advisable that you get yourself acquainted with these instructions and dangers.