Any investment that one has is going to be in something that they want to see last. This item is going to have to be nurtured and maintained to keep the value in place and its durability encouraged. The same thing could be said of one’s car. This is an investment that will require a regular focus so as to ensure a long-lasting value and dependability. So what do you have to do to keep your car’s life expectancy last longer?
The Engine
What you do under the hood will contribute immensely to the span of life that you automobile will have. Let’s focus on some of the more important things to keep on top of with the engine.
Your car runs on a variety of fluids and additives, so it is important to have a consistent maintenance check on these levels and consistency.
• Oil must be regularly looked at and the proper oil weight used. Manufacturer recommendations should never be ignored when changing the oil. They will stipulate the proper weight of oil to be used to enhance the performance of the engine. The viscosity, or thickness, plays an important role in engine lubrication. The regularity for oil changes will vary, but it is usually every 3,000 to 4,000 miles.
• Engine coolant becomes the second fluid to be checked regularly. This liquid addition to the power plant of your car will maintain proper cooling ability as the engine does its job mile after mile. Keeping it at required levels and consistently changed keeps your engine running smoothly.
• The next fluid of consequence would be brake fluid. This lubricant is the basis of hydraulic pressure for having proper brake pressure. Brake fluid becomes an area of safety. This fluid should be free of dirt and other deposits to keep it from breaking down.
• Power steering fluid levels must be regularly checked. This fluid is imperative in allowing for proper metal on metal wear when the steering wheel is manipulated.
Check your car’s owner’s manual to see the complete list of other additives that your car will need.
Your car engine ahs many moving parts and these parts need to be regularly visited to ensure proper connections and free of wear. Always have belts and hoses looked at for cracks. Make sure that the car battery posts are free of corrosion and looseness, as well the battery being kept up to date. Regular mechanic visits for tune-ups should never be disregarded.
The Body
The exterior of your car is just as important. Keeping the car washed and waxed ensures that the effect of weather and street debris does not destroy a car’s luster or lifespan.
Always check tire pressure, wheel alignment and joint maintenance as a few of underbody concerns to be focused on.
These are a few of the basics to be aware of to add to the overall lifespan of your automobile investment. Most importantly, have your car checked and serviced by an A.S.E. certified mechanic on a scheduled maintenance plan.