A regular serviced vehicle can make a difference between a smooth and fuel-efficient drive to one that is bumpy. It appears expensive but it will benefit you in the long run if you plan on using the vehicle for years or plan on selling it in the near future. Whether a new or old vehicle, minor wear and tear if treated quickly or at the time of occurrence can save on costly repairs or replacements.
The secret for a long-lasting vehicle is the frequency of its maintenance. Whether you are driving a Honda vehicle or any other brand of car, having regular checks are vital to driving safely on the roads. Here are a few tips on basic maintenance for your vehicle:
1. Tire Pressure
Try to check your tire pressure every one or two weeks as the tire pressure is important when applying your brakes. Low pressure can increase your fuel consumption. Apart from the pressure, the thread depth of you tire should be checked as the thread depths are important for a strong grip on the roads. If the depth of the thread has reduced, you can find the vehicle slipping especially on wet or icy roads.
2. Engine Oil
The oil lubricates your vehicle’s engine and if running low may cause damages to the engine. Check the engine oil every fortnight or at least once a month. If you plan on checking the level of the oil yourself, ensure that your vehicle is off and the engine is cool before proceeding.
Oil changing is essential and usually you can get this done for an affordable price at a reputable vehicle dealership or assigned workshop by your dealership.
3. Brakes
Brakes are an important function and therefore must be checked regularly. Be aware of certain sounds when braking or putting pressure on the brakes. Some common signs include high-pitched squealing, grinding sounds and slow to stop or requiring more effort on the brake pedal.
4. Vehicle Balance & Alignment
The alignment helps keep the vehicle in balance on the road and prevents it from straying to one side. However, note that the alignment of the wheel and wheel balancing are two different adjustments. The alignment involves the adjusting of the angle of the wheels and allows the vehicle to drive straight on a straight and level road, while the balancing allows the tires and wheels to spin or rotate in a balanced motion and therefore lessening the vibrations experienced while driving.
5. Wipers & Coolants
Visibility is fundamental to safe driving which is why wiper blades are important for clear visibility especially during terrible weather. It can hinder visibility if not functioning well to wipe any rain, sleet or snow for instance on your vehicle’s windshield. It is recommended to change the wiper blades every six months. Another recommendation is to not use your wipers to de-ice as it can damage your wipers. Use an ice scraper tool instead.
Draining out the coolant and refilling gets rid of dirt and rust particles. The coolant absorbs the heat from your engine, prevents the car from freezing and keeps the engine cool reducing the vehicle from overheating.
6. Basic Vehicle Maintenance
Basic maintenance usually includes oil change, battery check, tire pressure and thread checks, windshield wiper replacements, brake testing, vehicle alignment check and coolant level check. These basic checks will keep your vehicle in good shape and running smoothly. Don’t neglect preventive maintenance just to save money.
You can do your own inspection before you consider taking it to a maintenance shop. But for professional advice and accurate checks on some of the engine parts such as the oil and coolant level, you may want to have regular inspections with a vehicle auto workshop.
