Vehicle Maintenance
Every vehicle requires some sort of maintenance in order to keep it reliable and running efficiently. Maintenance schedules with modern day vehicles are usually based on mileage however if you are the type of person who doesn’t stick to regular maintenance intervals then you should carryout the following five things to keep your vehicle running efficiently:
1) Replace/Clean your Air filter: You should replace your air filter at least once per year since this is one of the main ingredients required by your vehicle to generate power! Dirty air filters have a tendency to cause erratic idles when the car is in neutral or park. If you have a permanent air filter such as an aftermarket K&N filter, then you should wash & re-oil it at least once per year! This would ensure that your vehicle receives the air it requires to operate efficiently.
2) Replace your Fuel Filter: You should also replace your fuel filter at least once per year especially if you have a tendency to run your gas tank to almost empty. Any particulates present in the gasoline (from wear and tear of the storage tank or pump at the gas station) would settle at the bottom of your tank. This may be sucked up by your fuel pump if you run your tank almost empty and clog your fuel filter. A good rule of thumb is to change your fuel filter at least once per year.
3) Rotate your tires: It is also advisable to rotate your tires at least once per year so that you would allow an even wear on all four tires. This would provide you with longer tire life resulting in cost savings. For example, front wheel drive cars wear down front tires faster than the rear so if you rotate the tires and put the rear tires in front and vice versa then you would get the most usage out of your tires. It would also be advisable to re-balance your tires when this is done in order to maintain a smooth ride.
4) Change your engine coolant: After a year of usage, coolant tends to smell “funny”; in some cases you may get a burnt odour. It is advisable to change your coolant at least once per year to ensure that your cars’ cooling water system efficiency is maintained. An engine which operates at lower temperatures or one that has an efficient cooling system would always last longer since the wear and tear due to heat would be minimised.
5) Change all oils utilized in your car (Engine, Gearbox, Automatic Transmission, Differential for rear wheel drive cars): This goes with the saying that “oil is cheaper than metal”. Oil degraded by heat would not provide sufficient lubrication to bearings, gears etc. This would cause serious wear and tear eventually resulting in component failure! In vehicles which utilize an automatic transmission, it is advisable to change this fluid at least once per year. This would help keep your transmission running cooler and properly lubricated, hence prolonging its life.
Once these five tasks are carried out on a yearly basis, your car should maintain its reliability and running efficiently. Just remember spending a few dollars now can save you a lot in the future! Keep that in mind!
