Basic Car Care TIps

Spring is around the corner. It’s a perfect time to check your car and perform some basic maintenance.

Here are five things you can do today to help keep your car in good shape down the road:

1. Get to know your owner’s manual. Your car is unique, and so are some of its needs. Check your manual to learn about recommended service intervals and other requirements. And, keep it handy whenever you do maintenance. Before you know it, you’ll have a better understanding of your car than you ever thought possible.
    
2. Look at your tires every month. This means both the air pressure and the tread. Keeping your tires properly inflated will help improve your gas mileage, and having enough tread is crucial, particularly during inclement weather. Here’s a quick tread test: Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head upside down. Can you see his entire head? It’s time to replace your tires.
    
3. Check your fluids. Your manual should help you locate various gauges or dipsticks to check your fluids, including antifreeze/coolant (roughly every 12 months), power steering (about every 3 months), automatic transmission (approximately every 3 months) and wiper fluid (regularly). If you’re low, follow the instructions to add more.
    
4. Don’t forget your oil. We’re including this separately from other fluids, because it’s just that important. Get it changed as recommended, but check the level at least once a month, or every other time you fill up with gas. For the most accurate reading, wait at least 5 minutes after you’ve turned off the engine. Also, take note of what it looks like — is it clean or murky? The latter could indicate a problem.
    
5. How are the lights? Headlights are important, but don’t ignore your other lights, such as taillights, turn signals and reverse lights. Keep them clean and replace bulbs as needed.