10 tips

Neglecting your vehicle can result in big problems. Here’s 10 tips to help ensure a smooth ride

by Car Care Canada

Below are 10 things you should do to ensure that your vehicle operates more safely and efficiently, lasts longer and retains its value.

1. Tire pressure
Check the pressure of all tires (including the spare) at least once a month when the tires are cold. Always follow the inflation-pressure (psi) recommendations listed in your owner’s manual, or those on the tire information label.

2. Engine air filter
Check the air filter every six months or 10,000 kilometres. Hold the filter up to a 60-watt lightbulb; if the filter blocks most of the light, it needs replacing.

3. Battery cables, clamps & terminals
The battery cables, clamps and connections should be inspected at every oil change. If there are any signs of corrosion or indications of electrical problems such as slow engine cranking or dimming headlights at idle, have your repair shop make the necessary adjustments.

4. Windshield-washer fluid
Check your washer-fluid reservoir monthly and more often when you use the washers frequently, and test the washer spray nozzles for proper operation and aim. During winter, use a solution with antifreeze protection.

5. Engine fluid
Change your engine’s oil and oil filter at the specified intervals, and follow the more frequent “severe service” recommendations if your driving habits meet any of the conditions described in your owner’s manual. Always use the weight of oil that is recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer for existing temperature conditions.

6. Windshield-wiper blades
Check your car’s wiper blades at each oil change or whenever they fail to wipe the windshield clean in a single swipe. Streaking and chattering mean that the rubber is breaking down and replacement is needed.

7. Antifreeze/coolant protection
Check the coolant level at every oil change. With a cold engine, the radiator should be completely full and the coolant level in the remote reservoir should be at or above the “cold” level marking. Have the system flushed and refilled with fresh coolant at the interval specified in your vehicle owner’s manual.

8. Tire tread
Check the tread depth of your tires whenever it appears low. Insert a penny upside down into a tire groove. If you can see above the Queen’s head at any point, replace the tire. Uneven or excessive wear of the tread may indicate the need for suspension repair or wheel alignment.

9. Drive-belt tensioner
Drive-belt condition and tension should be checked at every oil change. To prevent being stranded by a broken drive belt, have your car’s belts replaced every four years or 100,000 kilometres.

10. Brake fluid
Inspect the brake fluid level at every oil change. If the level falls below the “low” mark on the fluid reservoir, it usually indicates major brake wear or a leak; have the brakes inspected as soon as possible.