Here are components of your vehicle that need to be regularly maintained to ensure a safe and hassle-free vehicle:
Tire Pressure - Improperly inflated tires cause excess wear, decreased fuel economy, poorer handling and eventually tire failure. So check the tire pressures (don't forget the spare) at least once a month when the tires are cold. Always follow the inflation pressure recommendations in your owner’s manual, or those on the tire information label that is located in the glove box or on the driver’s door jamb. Do not use the inflation pressure molded into the tire sidewall; this is the maximum safe pressure that the tire can hold and it may or may not be the correct pressure for your particular car.
Engine Air Filter - Your vehicle’s air filter prevents dust and dirt from entering the engine. A dirty or clogged air filter restricts airflow and will reduce engine performance and fuel economy while increasing exhaust emission levels. Check your air filter at each oil change.
Battery Cables/Clamps/Terminals - Power from the battery flows to the rest of your vehicle’s electrical system through the cables, clamps and terminals. If these components and connections become corroded or loose, your car won’t have the power needed to start the engine and operate other systems. These components should be inspected at every oil change. If there are signs of corrosion, or you notice other indications of electrical problems such as slow engine cranking or dimming headlights at idle, have your repair shop test the charging and starting system, and clean and tighten the battery connections as necessary.
Windshield Washer Fluid - Rain, insects, grime and other debris on your windshield will compromise your vision if your windshield wipers cannot remove them. A supply of the proper washer fluid will help your wipers remove these contaminants effectively. Check your washer fluid reservoir monthly and use a washer solution formulated to aid in the removal of insects and other debris. Finally, test the washer spray nozzles for proper operation and aim.
Engine Oil - Without an adequate supply of clean oil, your engine will wear more rapidly and could even seize and be destroyed. So, change your engine’s oil and oil filter at the specified intervals, and follow the more frequent “severe service” recommendations if your driving habits meet any of the conditions described in your owner’s manual. Always use the weight of oil recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer for the existing temperature conditions. Watch for oil leaks beneath your vehicle and have any leaks corrected.
Windshield Wiper Blades - Windshield wipers are easy to overlook until you find yourself in a pounding rainstorm. If your wiper blades are worn, cracked or rigid with age, the wipers will not adequately remove rain, grime and other debris that can obscure your vision. Check your car’s wiper blades at each oil change or whenever they fail to wipe the glass clean in a single swipe. The life of a rubber insert is typically six to 12 months depending on its exposure to heat, dirt, sunlight, acid rain and ozone. Streaking and chattering are common clues that the rubber is breaking down and replacement is needed.
Antifreeze/Coolant Protection - Modern engine coolants prevent the cooling system from freezing or boiling, protect the engine and cooling system from rust and corrosion and lubricate the water pump seals and other cooling system components. Check the coolant level at every oil change. With a cold engine, the radiator should be completely full and the coolant level in the remote reservoir should be at or above the “cold” level marking. Have the system flushed and refilled with fresh coolant at the interval specified in your vehicle owner’s manual. Always top up the system with a 50/50 mixture of coolant and water to avoid altering the antifreeze level. Check your owners’ manual for the coolant your vehicle needs.
Drive Belt Tensioner - One or more rubber drive belts transfer the rotation of the engine’s crankshaft to various accessories that help your vehicle function properly. Belts that are too loose will allow slippage and reduce efficiency. Belts that are too tight can damage bearings and cause premature component failure. Drive belt condition and tension should be checked at every oil change. To prevent being stranded by a broken accessory drive belt, have your car’s belts replaced every four years or 60,000 miles.
Brake Fluid - An adequate supply of clean brake fluid is absolutely essential for safe vehicle operation. Old, moisture-contaminated brake fluid, or a low fluid level that allows air to enter the system, can lead to brake fade or a complete loss of braking power. Inspect the brake fluid level at every oil change. If the level has fallen below the “low” mark on the fluid reservoir, it usually indicates major brake wear or a leak somewhere in the system; have the brakes inspected as soon as possible. Most vehicle manufacturers recommend that the brake fluid be replaced periodically to flush moisture and contaminants from the system. Every two years is a common interval; check your vehicle owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
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