Purchasing a used vehicle is a brilliant move as it saves money. Nevertheless, it has to be taken care of to maintain it. The proper maintenance makes your vehicle live longer.
Tips to help you maintain your used car
Create a maintenance schedule
A servicing scheme maintains your car in a good shape. These guidelines will be found in your owner manual. A majority of used cars require frequent tests on major systems. The basis of long term performance is consistency.
These are some of the essential tasks that you should put in your agenda:
- Oil changes: Change between 5,000-7,500 miles or an oil replacement as recommended.
- Tires rotations: Change tires after 6,000 to 8000 miles of driving to wear them uniformly.
- Brake inspection: Inspection of brakes should be done after every 12,000 miles or after a year.
- Fluid checks: Check coolant, transmission and braking fluid partly every month.
- Replacement of air filters: Replacing after every 15,000-30,000 mile interval.
Check and replace fluids regularly
Fluids ensure that the systems of your car are well lubricated. Fluids that are low or dirty may result in severe damage. Always verify the levels when carrying out routine maintenance. Apply the correct type of fluid in your car. The right specifications are specified in your owner’s manual.
Fluids to watch are:
- Engine oil: Makes the engine lubricated and cool.
- Coolant: It helps avoid overheating and freezing.
- Brake fluid: Make sure there is the required braking.
- Transmission fluid: Enables gear shifting to go smoothly.
- Windshield washer fluid: Allows good visibility during adverse weather.
Inspect tires for safety
Tires increase the safety and handling of your car. Tire pressure needs to be checked every month to avoid uneven wear. Search as well as find the indications of harms such as a crack or bump. A right tire maintenance brings about better fuel efficiency. Rotate tires when they have less than 2/32 inches depth.
In order to maintain your tires, do the following:
- Check pressure: Take a gauge once a month; pump up to the recommended PSI.
- Check tread: A penny test allows checking tread depth.
- Rotate tires: Rotation of tires every 6,000-8,000 miles to even the tires.
- Align wheels: Align when you experience the pulling of your car, or you find that your tires wear unevenly.
- Replace when needed: Do not drive on bad tires.
Keep the battery in check
There is a possible chance of being stranded with a dead battery. There is a possibility of using old batteries found in used cars in murrieta. Replace it when it is more than three years old or weak.
Some steps in maintaining the battery are:
- Clean terminals: Corroded terminals must be cleaned off by using a wire brush.
- Connection check: Check the cables to ensure they are tight and secure.
- Volt test: Use a multimeter or do it by visiting a mechanic.
- Change outdated batteries: A majority of them have to be replaced after 3-5 years.
Clean and protect your car
A good washing makes a car more efficient and long lasting. Frequent washing prevents rusting and paint damage. Waxing prevents the UV rays from reaching the exterior. Wash the inside to prevent damage to the upholstery. Loving care maintains your used car in good shape.
Care tips to clean your car:
- Regular washing: Once in two weeks to clean off the dirt and grime.
- Wax twice a year: Shields paint and polishes.
- Vacuum interior: One does not get the dirt accumulating on the seats and carpets.
- Apply protectants: Place them on the dashboard and leather to prevent cracking.
Summary
Maintaining a used car is not difficult. Routine maintenance is both economical and safe. Begin now and ride on an even keel years later.
