How To Reduce The Cost Of Car Ownership

Regular maintenance checks and simple services can greatly reduce the cost of car ownership. Most of the checks and services described here can be done at little or no cost. Best of all, they are quick and easy to do and they can save time, money and inconvenience now and later. Always refer to your owner's manual when performing any maintenance task on your vehicle. Periodically your car should have a thorough inspection by a qualified technician.

UNDER THE CAR

  • Radiator

    • When the car is cold, open radiator cap, and look inside the radiator.

    • If the radiator is empty, fill with water.

    • If the radiator is not empty and the water is rusty, flush the radiator.

    • If it is leaking flush the radiator and treat with a commercial radiator sealant. You may need a new radiator if this does correct the problem. Make sure the hoses are securely clamped to the radiator and are not leaking as this may lead to overheating problem.
       

  • Belts and hoses

    • Inspect the belts and  hoses monthly.

    • Replace worn, glazed or frayed belt.

    • Replace bulging, rotten, or brittle hoses and tighten clamps.

    • If a hose looks bad, or feels too soft, or too hard, it should be replace.
       

  • Oil

    • Check oil every other fill up. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean. Insert it fully and remove it again. If it is low, add oil.

    • To maintain peak performance, change oil every 4,500 kilometres or three months, which ever comes first. Replace oil filter with every oil change.
       

  • Air filter

    • Check the air filter every other month. Replace it when it is dirty.
       

  • Break

    • Check break fluid monthly.

    • First, wipe dirt from the break master cylinder reservoir lid.

    • If you need fluid, add the approved type and check for possible leaks throughout the system.

     

  • Power steering

    • Check power steering fluid level once a month.

    • If the level is down, add fluid and inspect the pump and hoses for leaks.
       

  • Battery

    • Use extreme caution when handling a battery since it can produce explosive gases.

    • Do not smoke, create spark or light a match near a battery and always wear glasses and gloves. Have it checked with every oil change.

    • Cables should be attached securely and be free of corrosion

AROUND THE CAR

  • Windshield wiper blade

    • Inspect windshield wiper blades whenever you clean the windshield.

    • Do not wait until the rubber is worn or brittle to replace them. Wiper blades should be replaced at least once a year.
       

  • Lights

    • Be sure all the lights are clean and working, including the break lights, turn signals and emergency flashers.

    • Keep spare bulbs and fuses in your vehicle.
       

  • Tyres

    • Keep tyres inflated to recommended pressure.

    • Check for cuts, bulges and excessive tread wear.
       

  • Signs of oil seepage

    • Look for signs of oil seepage on shock absorbers.

    • Test shock action by bouncing the car up and down.

    • The car should stop bouncing when you step back.

    • Worn or leaking shocks should be replaced.
       

  • Exhaust

    • Look underneath for loose or broken exhaust clamps and supports.

    • Check for holes in muffler or pipes.

    • Replace rusted or damaged parts.

Article contributed by AAM

 

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