In order for your vehicle to be reliable and efficient, you need to be sure that you maintain it…correctly. Recently, MSN compiled a listing of the top 10 vehicle maintenance mistakes people should avoid. Here is a recap:
- Under-Inflated or Over-Inflated Tires: Under-inflated or over-inflated tires typically wear out sooner than properly inflated tires. Always be sure to properly test your tire pressure with a tire gauge or request that a qualified service technician check for you.
- Worn-Out Tires: Heat, sunlight, and ozone conditions all affect your tires. The tire industry recommends changing your tires every 5 years. If you are unsure how old your tires are, ask a service technician to read the date code stamped into the sidewall of the tire.
- Faulty Windshield Wipers: Oftentimes, we don’t think about our windshield wipers—until we need them most! Fall is the ideal time to replace your windshield wipers so that they are working properly by the time the snowy, icy, winter weather starts.
- Tune-Ups: For years, we’ve heard the words “annual vehicle tune-up.” Interestingly though, tune-ups are no longer necessary, as valves and/or carburetors no longer need adjusting and ignition timing is computer-controlled. However, 60,000- and 120,000-mile service visits are critical as timing belts, spark plug wires, and coolant are typically ready for replacement.
- Improper Gas Octane: Be sure that you use only the recommended octane gas for your vehicle. Higher-than-required octane does not yield more power or mileage for your vehicle.
- Improper Oil Change Timing: The rule of thumb used to be to change your oil every 3,000 miles. However, advances in engine design and lubricants make oil changes something to be done only when the schedule for that particular vehicle calls for it. For example, some vehicles require changes at 5,000-mile intervals, others at 15,000 miles. In addition, be sure to replace the oil in the vehicle only with the oil recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
- Dirty Air Filters: Semi-clogged or clogged air filters hurt your fuel economy. The question becomes, How do I know if my filters are clogged? The answer depends on how long you’ve had the filters and the conditions in which you drive. If you live in a big city or often travel along dirt roads, then your filters may need to be changed more often. You can ask a qualified service technician to check the condition of your filters.
- Bad Brakes: Your brakes are a critical component of your vehicle. If you notice anything different, unusual, or awkward about your brakes (i.e., sound, feel, or response), you should have them checked immediately.
- Improperly Secured Gas Cap: Is your “Check Engine” light on? You may want to check your gas cap to ensure that it is on tightly before you call a service technician. A loose gas cap defeats the fuel system’s venting arrangement.
- The Garage is for Your Car—Not for Storage! If you’re lucky enough to have a garage, use it for your vehicle. You will not only protect it from the elements, but you’ll also save time clearing off snow or ice and waiting for the vehicle to warm up in colder or inclement weather.
If you work to avoid these common vehicle maintenance mistakes, your vehicle should run more smoothly and more economically. For more information on any of these items, and/or more information on proper maintenance of the mobility equipment on your vehicle, please feel free to contact a VCI Mobility Service Representative.