About Car Maintenance
It is vital to maintain your car if you want to prevent breakdowns or problems in the future. You can drive your car much longer if you properly care for your car. When the proper maintenance is done, your car can possibly be driven up 200,000 miles or more. Things like the filters, tires and fluids must be checked and replaces regularly.
The Facts
Motor oil, transmission fluid, antifreeze, brake fluid and power steering fluid must be kept at the proper levels. The engine could seize up if motor oil is not used to lubricate the engine. Antifreeze keeps the engine at a cool temperature so the car does not overheat. Transmission fluid is necessary so the car can move forwards and backwards with no problems. The brakes will fail without the use of brake fluid. Without power steering fluid, it will be difficult to steer the car.
Features
Filters are one type of feature that must be changed frequently to ensure the engine is clean and free of contaminants. These filters allow fresh fluids to run through the engine and surrounding components. They include oil, air and transmission filters. The car can become sluggish when the filter is dirty. Oil should be changed according to the mileage recommended by the manufacturer of the car. Tires are another feature that must be checked regularly. The proper tire pressure will increase gas mileage and prevent blowouts. You can buy a tire pressure gauge at your local auto supply store. Some tire shops will check it for you for free. Check the owner’s manual for the type of filter, oil and amount of air for the tires.
Misconceptions
Not all oils, additives and fuels are the same. There are many different types. It is better to refer to the owner’s manual for the one that best fits your car. Paper air filters do not increase airflow like mesh type filters, which are more expensive and provide more horsepower for better acceleration. Discount oil filters do not work as well as quality oil filters. They can slow or even stop the car from working. Flushing your radiator is not the same as flushing it. Flushing the radiators can get rid of contaminants that draining it cannot.