There are a lot of parts and components to cars that sometimes, the barrage of details might overwhelm any car owner, especially if all you want to do is get into your car and be on your merry way.
However, there are some very basic things you should commit to memory if you are willing to drive your car problem-free, for a long time.
Here are some…
Car engine Oil state
Most people think the engine oil is to help the car burn fuel. Actually, it is supposed to clean, lubricate and cool your engine. The moment your oil is lower than its normal level, thick and dark colored, milky or contains metallic substances, it could signal a thermal degradation, oxidation and compressive heating. How do you know when your oil is in any of the above state? Use a dipstick.
Spare Tire Change
One very embarrassing as well as scary situation to find yourself in as a car owner is to have a flat tire by the roadside in the middle of nowhere, with no vulcanizer in sight. Driving around for too long with a flat could also further destroy your tire and rims beyond what a vulcanizer can fix easily. Help yourself by getting familiar with your jacks, bolts and other tools through conscious learning and practice. Also make sure to check often that your spare wheel is inflated at all times and in good condition.
Octane Measurements or Ratings
Octane rating is the standard measure of the performance rating of an engine fuel. This is what helps the air/fuel mixture to withstand compression before igniting to produce heat through spark plugs. The use of a lower or higher octane number when refuelling could lead to an engine knock. Engine octanes vary per car so reading your car manual or browsing details on your car model to see the right measurement could protect your engine a great deal. When next you are at the fuel pump, remember that buying a higher fuel octane is doing no one any good.
Brake Pad Check
Statistics have shown that about 22 percent of car crashes are caused by bad or worn brakes or brake pads. As there is no clear cut time for changing your brake pads since they vary from car to car, you will need to do it as often as possible or after your car starts to make some distinct noises. For people who are city residents and use their brakes frequently due to traffic jams, you might have to do it more often that rural residents.
Windshield Wiper Blades
It would be apt to note that these small and seemingly inconsequential duo are not as unnecessary as people take them to be. Imagine driving through very heavy downpours without windshield wipers…you get the picture!
Replace them as often as every 6 months.
Avoid crazy situations that can leave you at the mercy of unkind strangers. Know your car.