Every once in a while, your car needs
a little TLC. Follow our step-by-step guide to routine maintenance
that will keep your car in tip-top shape:
STEPS 1: Engine Oil
Always Keep an eye on the engine oil
level, routinely checking it weekly and specifically before long
journeys. If you vehicle is mainly used for short repetitive
journeys or frequent stop-start driving, it is recommended that you
change the oil more frequently than specified in the services
schedule. To check the oil level, park the vehicle on level ground
and leave to stand for five minutes before checking the dipstick
level. The oil level should be between the minimum and the maximum
marks. Top up as necessary using the recommended oil and allow the
vehicle to tick over and stand before re-checking the level. If the
engine is hot, be very careful when you put your hands under the
bonnet as you risk burning yourself.
STEPS 2: Engine Coolant
When the engine is cold, the level
should fall between the minimum and maximum marks on the reservoir.
The coolant system works under pressure. Do not take the cap off
when the engine is hot as you run the risk of scalding yourself.
When changing the cap, ensure that you only use genuine parts to
avoid long term damage to the system.
Step 3: Power Steering Fluid
To check the level, park your car on
level ground and, with the engine cold, remove the reservoir cap and
ensure the level is between the minimum and maximum marks on the
dipstick attached to the cap. Clean the dipstick, re-tighten the cap
and unscrew to ascertain the actual level. When topping up the fluid
level, it is important to ensure that the oil is of the same
specification as the fluid presently in the reservoir. Power
steering fluid is highly flammable. Do not let it come into contact
with hot engine parts. Fluid consumption should be extremely low. If
it needs topping up after short journeys, arrange for a system line
check.
Step 4: Brake Fluid
The brake fluid level should be
regularly checked to ensure it is at maximum level. However, brake
fluid is highly corrosive. So make sure it does not drip onto the
paint work of your vehicle.
Step 5: Air Filters.
In our dusty climate, checked the air
filter periodically and it should be replaced more frequently than
indicate in the servicing schedule to ensure maximum efficiency.
Step 6: Tyres
Every two weeks, and before long
journeys, you should check the tyre pressures of every tyre,
including the spare. Also periodically check the sidewalls for signs
of damage, abnormal swelling or irregular wear, matters that can all
arise as part of day in day out driving. Cracking of tread rubber
and sidewalls are an indication of tyre aging. The pressures should
be checked when the tyre is rested and cold. Remember that road
holding and safety depends upon having the correct type pressure.
Incorrect pressures also lead to uneven or early tyre wear. Under
inflated tyres lead to shoulder tread wear whilst over inflation
leads to central tread wear. If the pressure is too low, the tyre
can overheat causing irreparable damage.
Article contributed by AAM
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