Car Care Tips for Students and Parents
(ARA) - Parents and students
will do well to get their vehicles in shape before winter arrives,
according to the pros and the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive
Service Excellence (ASE). Many breakdowns can be avoided entirely
by routine maintenance. The following tips from ASE should give
parent and student alike a road map to fall car care.
First things first -- Read your owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s
recommended service schedules.
Engine Performance -- Get engine driveability problems (hard starts,
rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) corrected at a good
repair shop. Cold weather will make existing problems worse. Replace
dirty filters—air, fuel, PCV, etc.
Fuel -- Put a bottle of fuel de-icer in your tank once a month to
help keep moisture from freezing in the fuel line. Note, too, that
a gas tank that’s kept filled helps prevent moisture from forming.
Oil -- Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual
-- more often (every 3,000 miles or so) if your driving is mostly
stop-and-go or consists of frequent short trips.
Cooling System -- The cooling system should be flushed and refilled
as recommended. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant
should be checked periodically. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and
water is usually recommended.) If you’re doing your own work, 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 certified auto technician.
Heater/Defroster -- The heater and defroster must be in good working
condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility.
Windshield Wipers -- Replace old blades. If your climate is harsh,
purchase rubber-clad (winter) blades to fight ice build-up. Stock
up on windshield washer solvent; you’ll be surprised how much you
use. Carry an ice-scraper.
Battery -- 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; re-tighten all
connections. If battery caps are removable, check fluid level monthly.
A word of caution: Removal of cables can cause damage or loss of
data/codes on some newer vehicles. Check your manual. Be sure to
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 road grime from all lenses. To prevent scratching,
never use a dry rag.
Exhaust System -- Your vehicle should be placed on a lift and the
exhaust system examined for leaks. The trunk and floorboards should
be inspected for small holes. Exhaust fumes can be deadly.
Tires -- Worn tires will be of little use in winter weather. Examine
tires for remaining tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check
the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Check tire pressure once a month.
Let the tires “cool down” before checking the pressure. Rotate as
recommended. Don’t forget your spare, and be sure the jack is in
good condition.
Emergencies -- Carry gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel,
sand or kitty litter, tire chains, a flashlight, and a cell phone.
Put a few “high-energy” snacks in your glove box.
For more car care tips, visit www.ase.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content
About the author:
Courtesy of ARA Content
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