Tips for maintaining a car -- Simple tasks can make your car more durable

One of the reassuring qualities of modern cars is that they require less frequent maintenance to keep them running. Replacing spark plugs, circuit breakers, and condensers used to be a seasonal exercise, and if there is a danger of aging, body rust is considered normal. Many spark plugs can now travel 100,000 miles between replacements. Electronic ignition devices have eliminated points and capacitors. Chassis, suspension, and even some transmissions are lubricated for life. The factory's rust-proof warranty is usually 6 years or longer. More importantly, reliability is significantly improved. As a result, most new cars and trucks should be able to travel 200,000 miles under 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 should be carried out once a month regularly; if oil spills are found or they are found to require regular refueling, they should be done more frequently. The car should be parked on a level surface so you can get accurate dipstick readings. Do not top up. If you really have a bug, find it 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 an accurate tire pressure gauge before any long road trip. Do this when 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 on the sidewall of the tire. The recommended pressure is usually found on the front door post sign, in the glove compartment or in the owner's manual. Also make sure that the tires are inspected for abnormal or uneven wear, cuts, and any visible sidewall bumps.

We recommend that digital tire pressure gauges (priced around $15 to $25) may be the best overall bet because they will give accurate readings or not at all. Many pencil-type instruments (usually $10 to $15) are also good. Note that to check the pressure of 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, if necessary, flush the fender wells and chassis with hoses to remove dirt and road salt. When the water drops become more than a quarter, it is time to wax the paint.

Other checks every time you change oil

For normal driving, many car manufacturers recommend replacing engine oil and filters every 7,500 or six months, whichever comes first. This is enough for most motorists. For "serious" driving with frequent, very cold start-ups and short trips, dusty environments or trailer towing, the replacement interval should be reduced to every 3,000 miles or every three months. (Please check the vehicle-specific intervals recommended in the owner's manual.) 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 dust jacket

On front-wheel drive and some four-wheel drive vehicles, check the boot sleeve (such as rubber sleeve, also known as cv boot). Replace any parts that have been cut, broken, or leaked immediately.

Check exhaust system

If you are willing to carry out an inspection under the car, check if there are rusty exhaust parts that need to be replaced. Tighten the loose clamps at the same time. Do this when the car is on the ramp. If the store changes your oil, let them check it out. When driving, please pay attention to changes in exhaust sound. 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 go to the store to check and step on the brakes. If you are working on the brakes yourself, remove all the wheels and check the brake system. Replace excessively worn liners or linings and severely nick or replace the rotor or drum. The brakes should be checked 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 the brake fluid and check for leaks.

Cleaning radiator

Use a soft brush to remove debris and clean the outside of the heat sink with a detergent solution to prevent overheating.

Check battery

Check the battery terminals and cables to make sure they are securely connected and free from corrosion. If the battery has a detachable cover, check the battery level every few months, especially if the climate is warmer.