Top 5 Ways To Maintain Your Automobile

When a person owns a car, it is important to keep it in the best condition possible. Not only will it

prolong the life of the vehicle, it will also ensure maximum performance and safety. Here are five of the

most important things to do in order to maintain your car.

1. Follow Instructions Set Forth By Manufacturers

No one knows what is best for a car like its manufacturer. It does not matter if a person buys a new or

used car, it is important for an owner to read the manual carefully and follow the instructions regarding

service and different dos and don'ts of driving. Keeping a vehicle in top condition will minimize bills

accrued from unnecessary repairs as well as maximizing its performance.

2. Regular Maintenance.

A key factor in making a car last as long as possible is to perform normal maintenance. Changing the

car's oil is one of the most basic and simple ways to keep an engine working at its best ability. When a

car has parts that are rubbing together and causing friction, it can end in excess wear and tear. When oil

is changed on a regular basis, the viscosity will lower the friction and wear that is placed on these parts.

Besides changing oil, an owner must also check the brakes. This is one system that is most responsible

for personal safety and the safety of all passengers. Usual signs of brake issues may involve a screeching

noise when the brakes are pressed, brakes that do not respond appropriately, the pedal sinks to the

floor, or vibration and grinding occurs when the brakes are applied.

A car also contains a number of different fluids that must be monitored. Vital fluids like engine oil,

transmission fluids, engine coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid must

be maintained regularly.

An owner must replace struts and shocks to increase performance. Shocks and struts that are worn may

lead to uneven wear on tires and damaged suspension. In the end, a car may drift on the road and

cause an accident.

Tires are also an important car component that must be attended to. In climates with snowy winters, it

is best to use winter tires and change to all season tires in the spring. Every tire has different rubber

compounds and will perform differently through various temperatures.

Changing an air filter will also keep a car in top condition. A car's filters will impact the life of the engine

as well as performance. This will directly effect fuel emissions and economy. The air filter traps

contaminants from the air, which keeps them from getting stuck inside of the engine. If not changed,

these filters will cause poor acceleration, performance, lower fuel efficiency, and lead to costly repairs.

3. Wash And Wax

Washing and waxing a vehicle will make it look better and also increase its resale value. A person must

take the time to properly clean the underside and inside bonnet to remove all dust and dirt that has

built up over time. The windshield and mirrors must be cleaned to ensure proper visibility when driving.

Besides outside, the car's interior must also be kept clean. Regular vacuuming will keep upholstery and

flooring in good condition. If a driver is a smoker, it will help to use an air freshener or odor eliminator

as well.

4. Drive With Care

This is an obvious way to maintain a car, but one of the most important. Driving with care will be helpful

to avoid putting high mileage on a car. High mileage gives a future buyer the perception that there is

extra wear and tear on the vehicle.

It is also smart to watch where the car is parked. A car's paint can become damaged if parked in direct

sunlight on a consistent basis. Parking a car in extremely cold placed may hurt the engine.

It is also best to drive defensively to avoid accidents. A car that has a history of collision will have a

lower resale value than one that has never been in a crash. If an accident does occur, it is always best to

use a certified repair shop and factory original parts.

5. Do Not Hesitate

When a car is making a funny noise or just does not seem right, it is important to investigate the

problem. Dealing with a problem from the beginning instead of waiting until it becomes even worse or

leading to other problems will save money as well as time. As soon as a problem is detected, it should

be taken to a professional mechanic to be repaired.

About the Author

Wayne Motors Autobody is a auto repair shop in Wayne, New Jersey where you can rest assure that

all your auto repair problems will be taken care of. With numerous years of experience and a friendly

rapport that makes you feel you are talking to one of your own. Visit their site here for more

information.