Car Care Tips
Check all fluids
It's important to check your engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission as well as windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant. Your engine oil should be changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or follow what's in the owner's manual.
Check the hoses and belts
To avoid expensive repairs, you need to make sure your belts and hoses are not cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or showing signs of excessive wear.
Check the battery
The average car battery life can be anywhere from three to five years, but the exact time of any given battery can depend on a number of factors. Replace if necessary. Make sure the connection is clean, tight and corrosion-free.
Check the brake system
You should check your brake system annually for safety and have the brake linings, rotors and drums inspected at each oil change.
Check engine performance
Check your engines performance to make sure it is delivering the best balance of power and fuel economy and producing the lowest level of emissions.
Check the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system
Check your heat, a/c and ventilation as proper heating and cooling performance is critical for interior comfort and for safety reasons such as defrosting.
Check the tires
You should check your tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.
Check the wipers and lighting
Check your lights to make sure you can see and be seen. Check that all interior and exterior lighting is working properly and replace worn wiper blades so you can see clearly when driving during precipitation.
Inspect the exhaust system
Your exhaust system should be checked for leaks, damage and broken supports or hangers if there is an unusual noise. Exhaust leaks can be dangerous and must be corrected without delay.
Inspect the steering and suspension system
You should have your steering and suspension checked annually including shock absorbers, struts and chassis parts such as ball joints, tie rod ends and other related components.
