Summer's heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic
will take their toll on your vehicle. Add the effects of last winter, and you
could be poised for a breakdown. You can lessen the odds of mechanical failure
through periodic maintenance. Your vehicle should last longer and command a
higher resale price too!
Some of the following tips are easy to do;
others require a skilled auto technician.
-
Read your owner's manual
- Follow the manufacturer's recommended service intervals.
-
Air Conditioning - A
marginally operating system will fail in hot weather. Have the system examined
by a qualified technician.
-
Cooling System - The
greatest cause of summer breakdowns is overheating. The cooling system should
be completely flushed and refilled about every 24 months. The level, condition
and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. (A 50/50 mix
of antifreeze and water is usually recommended.) Do-It-Yourselfers, never
remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled! The tightness
and condition of drive belts, clamps and hoses should be checked by a
pro.
-
Oil - Change your oil
and oil filter as specified in your manual - more often (every 3000 miles) if
you make frequent short jaunts, extended trips with lots of luggage, or tow a
trailer.
-
Engine Performance -
Replace other filters (air, fuel, PCV, etc) as recommended - more
often in dusty conditions. Get engine driveability problems (hard starts,
rough idling, stalling, diminshed power, etc) corrected.
-
Windshield Wipers - A
dirty windshield causes eye fatigue and can pose a safety hazard. Replace worn
blades and get plenty of windshield washer solvent.
-
Tires - Have your tires
rotated about every 5000 miles. Check tires pressures once a month; let the
tires "cool down" first. Don't forget your spare, and be sure the jack is in
good condition. Examine tires for tread life, uneven wearing and cupping; check
the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. An alignment is warranted if there is uneven
tread wear or if your vehicle pulls to one side.
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Brakes - Brakes should
be inspected as recommended in your manual, or sooner if you notice
pulsations, grabbing, noises or longer stopping distance. Minor brake problems
should be corrected promptly.
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Battery - Batteries can
fail at any time of year. The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is
with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts
and cable connections; clean all surfaces; retighten all connections. If
battery caps are removable, check the fluid level monthly. Avoid contact with
corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber
gloves.
-
Lights - Inspect all
lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; periodically clean dirt and
insects from all lenses. To prevent scratching, never use a dry
rag.
-
Emergencies - Carry some
basic tools - ask one of our technicians for suggestions. Also include a
first aid kit, flares and a flashlight. Consider buying a cellular phone or CB
radio.