Preparing Your Car for Summer Driving
It is common knowledge that we need to keep our vehicle properly serviced for winter.
We don't always consider this to be important during the summer though. The heat can be just as much of a problem for your vehicle as the cold.
Service your vehicle at regular intervals. Doing this can have a large effect on not only performance but resale value also. I kept my last vehicle serviced in acccordance to the manufacturers specifications and when it came to selling it, I got more for it due to its good condition.
Reading your owners manual is also very important as it gives your vital information on the maintenance of your car, like fluid change intervals for instance.
The manufacturer's maintanence schedule should be adhered to. Doing this will ensure that you don't have a major breakdown while driving.
When servicing the vehicle, make sure that the air conditioning is checked. This can help avoid a huge repair bill in the future.
The most common cause of breakdowns in the summer is overheating. To avoid this happening to you, you should ensure that your cooling system is serviced and properly filled.
Have your car's belts, clamps, and hoses checked by a technician. This only takes a few minutes and is usually inexpensive.
Oil and fluid changes should be performed every 3000 miles or quarterly.
Replace air and fuel filters as recommended.
Check your windshield washer fluid levels as these may be a low due to high winter usage.
Rotate your tires at 5000 mile intervals.
Your spare tire must by checked. Ensure it is inflated properly and is in good condition. Also check that you have sufficient tools to change it!
Transmission troubles equal money troubles equal emotional troubles! Have your transmission serviced periodically, and prevent big-time repair bills.
If you notice that your brakes are less efficient, get them checked out right away.
Have your car battery inspected for life expectancy during the service.
Inspect all lights and bulbs to make sure they're working.
Carry a first aid kit, flares, jumper cables, a flashlight, and a cell phone.
There you go - a simple list to keep your car in great running shape. Remember, your car needs to be maintained and checked over even in the summer.
These check don't take very long, perhaps half an hour every month, but can ensure your car keep running properly for years to come.
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