A car, as well as any other long-term investment, needs
taking care of, especially in today's market. Maintaining a car in good
condition is of utmost importance, whether it is a brand-new or a used car. In
this way, you will not only avoid unpleasant situations and more expensive
breakdowns, but you will also contribute to your own and other people's safety
in traffic.
Regular maintenance is a prerequisite for the safety and longevity of the vehicle too. The regular maintenance interval varies from vehicle to vehicle, as do the parts that need to be replaced or checked. Moreover, your car's engine is its heart and soul. Therefore, regular maintenance is necessary to ensure that the engine in your car runs efficiently and smoothly.
Keep an eye on the dashboard lights
When the dashboard lights are on, they are on for a reason. The fact that they light up gives you plenty of time to act even though it is simple to disregard them. It will light up frequently if there's an issue with temperature, battery, or the alternator so make sure to have somebody check it for you and discover the source of the problem.
Change the fuel filter
The oil filter and the fuel filter are similar. The fuel filter removes particles from the fuel in the same way that an oil filter does from engine oil. By keeping the fuel source clean, fuel filters improve the energy supply to your system and make the fuel efficient.
Replace the oil regularly
Regular oil changes protect various engine components by
supplying them with new, high-quality fluid preventing any potential harm. The
lubricating effect of oil prevents overheating of the parts. The quality of oil
for proper and long-term engine operation is so important that everyone, from
beginners to enthusiasts and professionals who own racing cars, must keep that
in mind. So how to pick the best quality oil then?
Valvoline VR1 Racing motor oils are designed to provide the
best performance possible. They provide the extra backup necessary to withstand
the demanding operating conditions encountered in rallies and races, and they
are also excellent for regular daily driving in cities and on highways.
Use premium quality VR1 20W50 oil designed specifically for high-performance cars for the best performance in petrol turbocharged and non-turbocharged engines. It is good to know that a few motorcycle models are compatible with VR1 Racing motor oils besides cars.
Look for potential leaks
As you drive, the engine is continuously under pressure and
becoming extremely hot. Rubber hoses and worn-out parts can lead to fluid leaks
when your car is not used for an extended period of time. Parts also
deteriorate over time. Check the ground for any liquids as you start to pull
away. Coolant and engine oil are the two principal fluids that should not be
leaking from your car.
Also, you can occasionally lift the hood to check for any dripping water close to the engine. Pay attention to its color as the color of motor oil will be black or dark brown, orange or green is engine coolant, the automatic transmission fluid will be brown or red, and the power steering fluid will get deeper or reddish-brown. When brand-new, brake fluid is clear, but it gradually becomes darker brown.
Maintain the air filter regularly
An air filter stops dirt from entering the engine, reducing fuel efficiency and increasing emissions. As you drive, air filters prevent particles like bugs, dirt, and leaves from cycling through the air supply and entering the engine. The air filter may last a long time based on how you drive, but if it gets too filthy, it can clog the system and harm your engine permanently. Have the technicians check the air filter to make sure it's clean.
Don't forget about the cooling system
The thermostat, water pump, coolant, and radiator are all parts of the cooling system. Making sure coolant is circulating throughout the system and shielding the vital parts is the simplest approach to stop your automobile from overheating. The coolant tank under the hood can be used to check the coolant levels. A clear tank will contain orange or green liquid.
Replace the wires and spark plugs
These are used every time you start your car, so it's no wonder they get so worn out in time. The majority of manufacturers recommend changing them around every 30,000 km, but a professional can do diagnostic tests to see if and when the change is necessary. Replacing the plugs and wires is often a simple process that requires minimal time and money, so it should not be delayed for too long.
In conclusion
Finally, be on the lookout for any unusual engine noises or
smells. Have your car examined regularly. The secret to extending the lifespan
and maintaining the proper functioning of your car is planned maintenance. It
can provide you peace of mind by preventing things like unforeseen
malfunctions.
By Brigitte Evans
