 - Regular oil changes.
- Properly inflated tires.Â
- Belts and hoses in good condition.
- Proper coolant levels.
The High Price of Not Changing Your Oil
Your engine oil is your car's lifeblood. Failing to change it on a regular basis will inflict serious damage on the engine, leading to a large repair bill or even worse.Years ago, vehicle owners could get away with using almost any type of motor oil; but those days are gone forever. Here at Woody Folsom Chevrolet, our technicians always use the specific formula recommended by the manufacturer. Make sure that your shop does the same. Otherwise you may find yourself stranded on the side of the road.
Why Properly Inflated Tires Are So Important
Your tires are the sole point of contact between your car and the road itself. When they're overinflated, there's less tread touching the asphalt. This means that it takes longer to bring your vehicle to a stop.Underinflated tires are dangerous as well, since they make it harder to control your vehicle while going around a curve. You're more likely to oversteer and end up in a dangerous spin out, or even flip your automobile over completely.
Most modern vehicles have built-in sensors that alert the driver to low tire pressure. Still, it's a good idea to check the pressure yourself from time to time using a handheld tire gauge.
You should also check your tire's tread for damage or excessive wear. An easy way to do so is to insert a standard US penny into the tread with Lincoln's head facing downward. If his entire face is visible, then the tread is dangerously worn and it's time for new tires.
 Checking Belts and Hoses in Modern Cars
Inspect your engine belts every time your oil is changed, using a flashlight to check for cracks, cuts, and other signs of wear. A screeching or squealing noise from under the hood is often caused by a bad belt. Have your vehicle serviced right away if you notice any of these problems.You should check your engine's hoses at the same time as the belts, but make sure the engine is completely cool before doing so. Hoses that are hard, loose, or cracked are on the verge of failure and need immediate replacement. This work is best left to professional technicians with the necessary tools and experience.
Checking Your Vehicle's Coolant Levels
Coolant is just as important to your engine as oil. Here's how to make sure it has enough of this vital fluid:- Park your vehicle on a flat surface, then turn off the engine and let it cool down.
- Check the coolant level in the reservoir according to the instructions in your owner's manual. If it's less than full, then take the vehicle to a qualified mechanic for servicing.
- If coolant levels continue to drop, or if the coolant itself is discolored, then your vehicle needs attention right away. Ignoring these problems could damage or destroy your engine.