If you have a car that has been in use for long, then it is very important that you take good care of it. Else, the vehicle will deteriorate so fast that you will be paying more money in fuel charges and repairs. To help you with this, we list below six tips you need to remember to take better care of your car.
1. Radiator
The car’s radiator system needs to be cleaned on a regular basis. Else, it might end up collecting deposits over a period of time and disrupt the proper cooling process. Generally, a radiator flush is recommended once every year or two. This should be good enough to keep the system in check. However, ensure that the car is completely cooled before you start tinkering with the radiator. And if you plan on selling the vehicle, then the price of the car will definitely be dependent on how well it has been maintained. I used Top Deals 4 Wheels to value my car
2. Oil Change
As an owner of a car, you should replace the oil every 3000 miles. Without a proper lubricant, the engine won’t function properly. If you are forced to change oil after every 500 or 1000 miles, it indicates a possible leak. Get the car inspected and plug the leak before the entire engine itself is damaged.
3. Windshield
If your windshield is dirty and dusty, then that is a safety hazard which can actually result in car crashes. As such, clean it using a sponge soaked in water. Using a cleaning fluid is also highly recommended since it will clean out any insect carcasses or debris smashed on to the windshield. Plus, remember to give the headlights a good cleaning.
4. Battery
An important factor that will guarantee the smooth operation of your car is the battery. So, check the battery on a regular basis and watch out for any white residue settled on its posts. If you see them, remove it immediately and clean the posts using a mix of baking soda and water. Dry it out before inserting the posts back into the battery.
5. Spark Plug
You also need to inspect the spark plug regularly and check it if it has been in operation for more than 30,000 miles. The component is usually attached to rubbery wires and can have four to eight plugs depending on the number of cylinders on your vehicle. Once you set the new spark plug, remember to tighten it appropriately. However, avoid tightening it too much as it can end up creating problems for your vehicle.
6. Brakes
Check the brake pads for wear and tear, and replace them quickly if you find any damage. Ideally, the replacement must be done once every 20,000 miles. However, this is only a conservative estimate. In case, your driving style has a lot more frequent stop-and-go tendencies, then you might have to get new brake pads even faster. It is also recommended that you read up on the owner’s manual for a more accurate estimate of when the brake pads will need to be changed.