Road & Travel Magazine

   
RTM WWW
                Bookmark and Share  



Automotive Channel

Auto Advice & Tips
Auto Products
Auto Buyer's Guides
Car Care & Maintenance
Car of the Year Awards
Earth Aware Awards
Insurance & Accidents
Legends & Leaders
New Car Reviews
News & Views
Planet Driven
Road Humor

Road Trips
Safety & Security
Teens & Tots
Tire Buying Tips
Used Car Buying
Vehicle Model Guides
Vehicle Safety Ratings
What Women Want

Travel Channel
Adventure Travel
Advice & Tips
Airline Rules
Bed & Breakfasts
Cruises & Tours
Destination Reviews
Earth Tones
Family Travel Tips
Health Trip
Hotels & Resorts

Luxury Travel
News & Views
Pet Travel
Safety & Security
Spa Reviews
Train Vacations
Travel Products
What Women Want
World Travel Directory
Follow Us
Road & Travel Magazine
Facebook | Twitter
Road & Travel Blog

Earth, Wind & Power
Facebook | Twitter | Blog

Simple Car Care Tips Simple & Easy Car Care Tips from the Experts

According to recent studies, five percent of all motor vehicle fatalities are clearly caused by automobile maintenance neglect. The following simple and inexpensive preventive checks will greatly extend the life of the vehicle, ensure safer operation and even benefit the environment.

  • Always consult your owner's manual, but a good rule of thumb is to have the oil filter changed regularly, every 3,000 to 4,000 miles.

  • Have all fluids checked, including brake,power steering, transmission/transaxle, windshield washer solvent and antifreeze. These fluids play a large role in the safety and performance of the vehicle.

  • Check tire inflation. Under-inflated tires can result in a loss of fuel efficiency. This is the least expensive form of preventive and safety maintenance. Tires should be checked once a month.

  • Keep your engine tuned. A fouled spark plug or plugged/restricted fuel injector can reduce fuel efficiency as much as 30 percent.

  • Have the chassis lubricated frequently. This step extends the life of the moving components of the suspension system.

  • Check battery cables and posts for corrosion and clean them as needed. The battery fluid should also be checked and filled if low, except in maintenance-free batteries.

  • Have the lighting system checked frequently, including headlights, turn signals, and brake and taillights.

  • Check windshield washer blades for cracks, tears and windshield contact. Replace them approximately once a year or sooner if streaking begins.

  • Inspect engine belts regularly. If worn, belts will affect the engine performance. Look for cracks and missing sections or segments.

  • Have the air filtration system checked frequently. The air filter should be checked approximately every other oil change for clogging or damage. This system ensures that the vehicle is performing at its peak condition.

Always consult the vehicle owner's manual for individual service schedules as manufacturer maintenance requirements vary greatly.

(Source: Automotive Service Association)

Copyright © 2014 - 2016 : ROAD & TRAVEL Magazine. All rights reserved.