The holidays are right around the corner and between Halloween and New Years, we’re all guaranteed to spend a lot of money, whether it’s on presents or travel because ’tis the season. But there are some things that you don’t HAVE to rack up the dollars on. Like your car. For those of you who read and applied the Fall Check List, you’re well on your way to not only keeping your car healthy for the season, but also saving money in the long run.
Here is my top 10 list of tips you can do to save time, money and keep you safe this season…
Top 10 List:
Check tire inflation regularly: A book should be written on tire pressure alone! This is so important, for optimal braking, improved gas mileage, better ride…the list goes on. Check your manual for your tire pressure (or look on the inside of your driver’s door jamb there is a sticker there too). It’s an easy, free way to maintain your wheels! Literally!
Know your engine oil life: A smooth clean engine will give you longer engine life. When your oil is dirty, your engine it not only works harder, but it can also cause damage to integral parts of your engine. Best way to prevent a money gobbling repair? Keep track of your oil changes.
Maintain proper fluid levels: Check all your fluids regularly, brake, power steering, transmission/transaxle, motor oil and antifreeze. It’s easily done, and even easier to refill. Fall is just a reminder, but this should be done all year.
Keep your engine tuned: When does your manual say to check and/replace your ignition components? When was the last time you did it? Worn spark plugs, old wires, or a restricted fuel injector can reduce fuel efficiency as much
as 30 percent, that’s another $1 per gallon at current gas prices. If your tank is 10 gallons, you use regular gas to fill your tank. At today’s prices, with a good fuel injector, you pay $35 for a full tank. If your fuel injector is restricted, you pay $45 for the same full tank, simply because of that 30 percent reduction. That could go towards those amazing leather gloves you saw at Macy’s, instead of gas.
Clean out your car prepare for the upcoming road trips: Picnic blankets can get put away. Snow brushes and shovels should come out. Never get caught unaware.
Check battery cables and posts: Inspect battery cables and posts for corrosion and clean them as needed. The battery fluid also should be checked and filled if it is low, except in the case of maintenance-free batteries. Easy and will give you piece of mind.
Inspect engine belts regularly: Belts that run your engine are only made of rubber, they get brittle and crack, potentially leaving you
stranded on the side of the road. Now that your ready to take the road trip make sure your belts are healthy for the ride.
Check the air filtration system: Might as well get more for your money, and now that we are in the driving season. Replacing your dirty air filter can give you up tp 10% better gas mileage.
Check windshield washer blades: If they are cracked, dry or ripped, replace them.
Monitor your vehicle’s maintenance schedule year-round: Your manual has a comprehensive list of your maintenance schedule. Use it!
Do you have any tips that can help prevent spending big bucks on auto repair? Share them!
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Mechanically Yours,
Amazing all kinds of superb tips!