15
Apr
2010
5 Best Ways to Maintain your Vehicle
Auto maintenance is such an important part to extending the life of your car. These five steps are easily avoidable, but equally easy to tackle. Don’t avoid. Tackle!
1. Check Your Brakes – common signs of break problems include a high-pitched screeching sound when applied, lack of appropriate response, a pedal that “sinks” towards the floor, vibration on the brake pedal or grinding metallic sound. If you experience any of these signs……it’s definitely time for a trip to the auto shop.
2. Top Up “Vital Fluids” – the following should be monitored and topped up on a regular basis: engine oil; transmission fluid; engine coolant; power steering fluid; brake fluid; and windshield washer fluid.
3. Replace Shocks and Struts – Ensuring your vehicle has adequate shocks and struts will increase your vehicle’s safety and performance. Worn shocks and struts can cause uneven tire wear, damage suspension components, and cause unusual drift and sway to your vehicle.
4. Change your Tires – It is important that winter tires be replaced with all-season tires in the spring, as the rubber compound is different and performs differently in warmer temperatures. Driving on winter tires throughout the summer is hard on them and will decrease their lifespan.
5. Oil/Air Filter Change – Your car’s filters have a significant impact on engine life and performance – they also have an effect on fuel consumption and emissions. While the oil filter’s job is to remove oil contaminants, the air filter captures airborne contaminants, like bugs and dirt, preventing them from entering your engine. Left unchanged, dirty air and oil filters can lead to poor acceleration, lower gas mileage, poor engine performance and serious repairs.
If these tips have you thinking about auto insurance, you’ve come to the right place! We can help!