Simple skills help to keep your car last longer

One of the reassuring features of modern cars is that they need less frequent service to keep them running. Replacing spark plugs, circuit breaker points, and condensers used to be a seasonal exercise, and if unfortunately aging is dangerous, body rust is considered normal. Many spark plugs now can travel 100,000 miles between replacements. The electronic igniter has burned out both the point and the condenser. Chassis, suspension, and even some transmissions are lubricated for life. And the factory's rust generally has to go through a six-year or longer warranty. In addition, reliability is also significantly improved. As a result, most new cars and trucks should be able to travel 200,000 miles with regular maintenance.

Here are some simple, regular checks and procedures that you can do that will help you get there.

Check engine oil

For vehicles in good condition, they are carried out once a month; if oil spills are found or they are found to require regular refueling, they are more frequent. This car should be parked on a level surface so you can get an accurate dipstick reading. Do not top up the oil. If you do have a leak, find and fix it as soon as possible.

Check tire pressure

Once a month, check the inflation pressure of each tire (including the spare tire) using a precise tire pressure gauge before driving on any long-distance road. Do this if the tire is cold (before the vehicle is driving or after driving for more than a few miles). Use the inflation pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer, not the maximum pressure imprinted on the sidewall of the tire. The recommended pressure usually appears in the placard, glove box or user manual of the front door post. Also make sure to check the tire for abnormal or uneven wear, cuts and any side bulges you can see.

CR recommends that digital tire pressure gauges (priced around $15 to $25) may be the best choice because they give accurate readings, or none at all. Many pencil-type instruments (usually $10 to $15) are also good. Note that to check the pressure in a temporary spare tire (usually 60 psi), you need a pressure gauge that is higher than 0 to 90 lbs.

Car wash

If you can, try to wash your car every week. Clean the body and flush the fender wells and chassis with hoses as necessary to remove dirt and road salt. When the water droplets are larger than a quarter, it is time to wax the surface.

Other checks every time you change oil

For normal driving, many car manufacturers recommend replacing engine oil and filters every 7,500 or 6 months, whichever comes first. This is enough for most motorists. For “serious” driving with frequent, extremely cold start and short-distance travel, dusty environments or trailer towing, the replacement interval should be reduced to every 3,000 miles or three months. (Check the owner's manual for specific intervals recommended for your vehicle.) Special engines such as diesel and turbocharged engines may require more frequent oil changes.

Check the air filter

Remove the air filter element and keep it under strong light. If you can't see the light, replace it. In any case, please follow the recommended maintenance intervals.

Check the constant velocity joint jacket

On front wheel drives and some four-wheel drive vehicles, check these jackets on the drive shaft, such as rubber jackets, also known as CV jackets. Replace the cut, cracked, or leaking parts immediately. If the dirt contaminates the constant velocity joint, it will quickly lead to expensive repairs.

Check exhaust system

If you are willing to do a car inspection, check if the exhaust parts are rusting and need to be replaced. Tighten the loose clamps at the same time. Do this when the car is driving on a ramp. If the store changes the oil, let them check it out. Listen to changes in exhaust sound while driving. It is generally recommended to replace the entire exhaust system at one time instead of repairing the parts at different times.

Look at the brakes

For most people, it makes sense to check and repair the brakes at the store. If you are dealing with your own braking work, remove all the wheels and check the brake system. Replace excessively worn brake pads or linings and machine or replace the severely wound rotor or brake drum. Check the brakes at least twice a year; if you drive a lot of miles, check them often.

Check liquid

In many new cars, the automatic transmission is sealed. In an unsealed vehicle, check the transmission dipstick with the engine warmed up and running (see the user manual for details). Also check the power steering pump dipstick (usually mounted on the reservoir lid) and the level in the brake fluid reservoir. If the brake fluid level is low, top up and check the system for leaks.

Cleaning radiator

Check the battery terminals and cables to make sure they are securely connected and free from corrosion. If the battery has a detachable lid, check the liquid level every few months, especially in warm climates.