Essential Car Maintenance Skills You Should Never Ignore
As a seasoned professional, I have seen countless examples of how poor car maintenance can lead to costly repairs and more frequent breakdowns. Here are some basic car maintenance skills that most people still ignore, along with why they are critical for every car owner to know.
Basic Car Maintenance Skills and Why They Are Important
Knowledge about car maintenance can save you a significant amount of money and trouble down the road. It can help you avoid unnecessary trips to the garage or emergency repairs due to worsening issues that could have been addressed with some basic skills. Let’s dive into the key skills you should master and why each one is crucial.
How to Change a Flat Tire
Changing a flat tire is a practical yet critical skill to have, and it’s something that many drivers are still not equipped to handle. Not only is it an essential safety measure, but knowing how to do it can save you from a costly tow or a problem on the road. Follow these steps to change a flat:
Move your car to a safe location, ensuring it is off the road and stable. Using a lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire without fully removing them. Position a jack under the car and raise it to the appropriate height. Remove the lug nuts and take off the flat tire. Install the new tire and retighten the lug nuts while the jack is still raised. Lower the car and fully tighten the lug nuts, ensuring they are tight but not over-tightened.How to Check and Add Engine Oil, Coolant, and Washer Fluid
Engine oil, coolant, and washer fluid are vital fluids that need regular checks and refills. Ignoring these can lead to engine damage, overheating, or poor visibility.
Engine Oil
Locate the dipstick in your engine and wipe it clean with a cloth. Retract the dipstick fully and then reinsert it into the tube. Pull it out again to check the oil level. Engine oil should be between the minimum and the maximum marks on the dipstick. If it's low, add more oil to your vehicle.Engine Coolant
Locate the coolant reservoir under your hood. Check the level of coolant and see if it is between the min and max marks. If it's low, add more coolant, being careful not to overfill.Washer Fluid
Locate the washer fluid reservoir, typically marked with a symbol of a car's windshield being washed. Check the level and add more washer fluid if necessary.How to Check Tire Pressure and Inflate Tires
Proper tire maintenance is vital for your car's safety and longevity. Regularly checking and inflating your tires can improve fuel efficiency and maintain vehicle performance.
Use a tire pressure gauge to check the air pressure in each tire. Ensure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, which can be found on the driver's side doorjamb or in the owner's manual. Use an air compressor or garage pump to inflate the tires to the correct pressure.Knowing When to Replace Tires and Identifying Unusual Sounds
Regularly check your tires for signs of wear and replace them when needed. Unusual sounds from your car, such as squeals, growls, or thuds, can indicate underlying issues that need immediate attention. Consult your owner’s manual for guidance on how to check for these signs.
Where to Add Fuel
When you run low on fuel, finding a nearby gas station is simple. However, before refueling, turn off the engine, unplug any electronics, and look for the fuel filler cap located at the back of the car. Carefully add fuel to the tank until it is full, then use a fuel nozzle to fill the tank.
Understanding the Manufacturer’s Recommendations
Every new vehicle comes with an owner's manual and a service manual that detail the recommended services and mileage intervals for maintenance. The manufacturer's schedule should be your primary reference. They base their recommendations on extensive testing and research to ensure your car runs at its best.
While dealership recommendations might vary, prioritize the manufacturer’s guidelines. These recommendations are crafted to deliver the best driving experience and longevity of your vehicle.
Conclusion
The more you put into your car, the more you’re likely to get out of it. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, tire checks, and various checks, is essential for maximizing your car's performance and reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns. Proper car maintenance not only saves you money but also ensures a safer and more enjoyable driving experience.