As cars become more common, people are increasingly paying attention to the maintenance of their vehicles. The quality of a car's maintenance directly affects its performance while driving. So, what are the key aspects of a good maintenance routine?
What are the routine maintenance tasks?
Routine maintenance typically involves checking tire pressure, inspecting for any punctures, and removing nails if found. If the tire pressure is too high or too low, or if there's a nail in the tire, it's necessary to adjust the pressure or repair the tire. If a nail has penetrated the tire and damaged the inner wall, the tire may need to be removed for patching.
Inspect the vehicle chassis for oil leaks or loose screws. After driving a considerable distance, vulnerable components like rubber seals or oil seals on the chassis may age, leading to oil leaks. Pay attention to components such as the half-shaft rubber seals, suspension ball joints, and check for oil seepage or signs of aging around the gearbox.
Change the engine oil. After prolonged driving, engine oil tends to show signs of performance decline, resulting in decreased lubrication functionality and a murky appearance. Therefore, it's essential to drain the old oil and replace it with fresh oil.
Clean or replace the air filter. The air filter ensures that the air entering the engine is clean by filtering out dust and impurities. Due to the presence of dust and impurities in the air, the air filter can become clogged over time, reducing intake efficiency. The decision to replace or clean the filter depends on the degree of dust accumulation.
Inspect brake fluid, coolant, windshield wiper fluid, and antifreeze. Long-distance driving and engine operation can lead to a reduction in these fluids. If these fluid levels are not within normal ranges during maintenance, they must be replenished.
Check the brake pads. Use a ruler or visually inspect the brake pads for signs of wear. If the brake pads are nearing the end of their lifespan, they should be replaced promptly to prevent brake failure.
