Summer's heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic will take their toll on your automobile. Add the effects of this past winter, and you might be poised for a breakdown. You can decrease the odds of auto mechanical problems through regular maintenance. If you take the recommendations of Charlie's Columbia CARSTAR in Columbia, Illinois, your motor vehicle will last longer and command an increased resale price, as well!
Many of the following tips are simple to do; others require a proficient auto technician.
Air Conditioning
A marginally operating system will go bad in warm weather. Have the system checked out by a qualified technician in the St. Louis, MO area. Newer models include cabin air filters that clean the air entering the heating and air conditioning system. Look at the owner's manual for location and replacement interval.
Cooling System
The greatest cause of summer breakdowns is overheating. The engine cooling system should be completely flushed and refilled about every 24 months. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be examined periodically. A 50-50 mixture of antifreeze and water is generally advisable. DIYers, don't remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled! The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses ought to be examined by a professional like those at Charlie's Columbia CARSTAR.
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Oil
Change your oil and oil filter as stipulated in your manual more often (every 3,000 miles) if you make frequent short jaunts, extended trips with a lot of luggage, or tow a trailer.
Engine Performance
Replace other filters (air, fuel, PCV, etc.) as recommended more frequently in dusty conditions. Get engine drive-ability problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) fixed at a good auto body shop that serves Waterloo, Southern Illinois, Millstadt, Freeburg, New Athens, and Columbia, Illinois.
Windshield Wipers
A dirty windshield causes eye fatigue and can pose a safety hazard. Replace worn blades and get plenty of windshield washer solvent.
Lights
Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; regularly clean dirt and insects from all lenses. To avoid scratching, never use a dry rag.
Tires
Have your tires rotated about every 5,000 miles. Check tire pressures every month; check them while they're cold before driving for any distance. Remember to check your spare too and make sure the jack is in good condition. Examine tires for tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. An alignment is called for if there is uneven tread wear or if your automobile pulls to one side.
Brakes
Brakes ought to be inspected as recommended in your manual, or sooner if you notice pulsations, grabbing, noises, or longer stopping distance. Even minor brake issues should be corrected quickly.
Battery
Batteries can fail any time of year. The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are detachable, look at the fluid level monthly. Avoid exposure to corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.
Emergencies
Carry some standard tools -- ask a technician for recommendations. Also have a first aid kit, flares, and a flashlight.
Many of the following tips are simple to do; others require a proficient auto technician.
Air Conditioning
A marginally operating system will go bad in warm weather. Have the system checked out by a qualified technician in the St. Louis, MO area. Newer models include cabin air filters that clean the air entering the heating and air conditioning system. Look at the owner's manual for location and replacement interval.
Cooling System
The greatest cause of summer breakdowns is overheating. The engine cooling system should be completely flushed and refilled about every 24 months. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be examined periodically. A 50-50 mixture of antifreeze and water is generally advisable. DIYers, don't remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled! The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses ought to be examined by a professional like those at Charlie's Columbia CARSTAR.
Change your oil and oil filter as stipulated in your manual more often (every 3,000 miles) if you make frequent short jaunts, extended trips with a lot of luggage, or tow a trailer.
Engine Performance
Replace other filters (air, fuel, PCV, etc.) as recommended more frequently in dusty conditions. Get engine drive-ability problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) fixed at a good auto body shop that serves Waterloo, Southern Illinois, Millstadt, Freeburg, New Athens, and Columbia, Illinois.
Windshield Wipers
A dirty windshield causes eye fatigue and can pose a safety hazard. Replace worn blades and get plenty of windshield washer solvent.
Lights
Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; regularly clean dirt and insects from all lenses. To avoid scratching, never use a dry rag.
Tires
Have your tires rotated about every 5,000 miles. Check tire pressures every month; check them while they're cold before driving for any distance. Remember to check your spare too and make sure the jack is in good condition. Examine tires for tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. An alignment is called for if there is uneven tread wear or if your automobile pulls to one side.
Brakes
Brakes ought to be inspected as recommended in your manual, or sooner if you notice pulsations, grabbing, noises, or longer stopping distance. Even minor brake issues should be corrected quickly.
Battery
Batteries can fail any time of year. The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are detachable, look at the fluid level monthly. Avoid exposure to corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.
Emergencies
Carry some standard tools -- ask a technician for recommendations. Also have a first aid kit, flares, and a flashlight.