Every car is different and unique even if it is from the same dealer or of the same brand. The problems each car can create are also unique altogether.
Maintaining your own car is not a difficult task if you take heed of the following few points:
There are chances that you might think that your car is the most complex machine you own. To make this complexity simplicity, all you need to do is take that car’s manual and go through it thoroughly. Learn the details of all the parts of the car, how they work, and the time for its maintenance. Doing this will serve as an investment and you will also be an informed owner. While going through the manual, you can high light the important points like the replacement and the inspection of the parts or the fluids. Also take special note of the service schedule. It is mainly based on the distance travelled or the time elapsed. You can keep a log book and note down the date along with the mileage every time you get the car to the centre.
Checking the oil of the car regularly is the common sense but not many practices the common sense. As blood is for the body, oil is for the car. So you need to change it on regular basis according to when your manufacturer suggests. It is mostly 3,000-5,000 miles. Some cars tell you when the oil needs to be changed with the oil life monitor fitted inside the car. Apart from the oil, some essential fluids that you need to take care of are the automatic transmission fluid, radiator coolant and the power steering fluid. When you go for the regular maintenance, you or your mechanic can take look at these fluids. You can even ask your mechanic to teach you to check these fluids yourself. The detail information about the level of the fluids and the maintenance is provided in your owner’s manual. Always check the oil when the car is off but the engine is still warm. Never try to remove the radiator cap when car is running and engine is really hot. Transmission fluid should be checked when the car is running but in an open space.
It is better if you know each and every button, knob and lever and switch in the inside of the car and what are the warning beeps in the car. Now days, there are many warning signals for each and every cars. The behavior of every warning light, a flashing light or a steady light may depict entirely different meanings. The panel in the dash board has many gauges, meters and indicator lights. Important ones are water temperature gauge and engine check light. There is also antilock braking system and traction control for some of the vehicles. Get to know all these and they will in turn help you operate your car on road while driving.
Keep your car clean. Wash your car regularly. Bird droppings dirty your car and sometimes these stains are difficult to go and leave a permanent marking. Go through the different articles on the internet and learn the proper technique of washing the car. This can help you retain your original paint after many years of buying it. Also, see to it that your head lights are focused correctly and are clean. Drive around with clean and glassy windows.
Know all the acronyms related to your car. You can go through the owner’s manual or ask your mechanic for the same. Service centers give you an idea what they will be doing to your car when you bring it in. if you are new to any procedure or the acronym they mention, don’t feel embarrassed to ask questions. Clear your doubts on the spots. Sometimes it might include important procedure like the major repair work concerning the engine or the electrical components. If the price seems to be higher than expected, take a second opinion. Also, know for yourself whether your car is a rear wheel drive or the front wheel drive or all wheel drive.
