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Tag: car care

  • Top 5 Reasons to Read Your Owner’s Manual

    Top 5 Reasons to Read Your Owner’s Manual

    Your vehicle owner’s manual may not sound like interesting reading material, but taking some time to review this information can potentially save you time and money. These manuals, which are commonly stored in glove compartments and are often available on manufacturers’ websites, contain important information and instructions regarding your vehicle’s maintenance and service needs. Following these maintenance and service guidelines will help to ensure the longevity and reliability of your vehicle.

    Here are the top 5 reasons you should read your owner’s manual:

    1. Maintenance Schedule

    Maintaining your vehicle is important. Educate yourself on what services your vehicle needs and when they are recommended (e.g., at 30,000 miles, 60,000 miles, etc.). If your mechanic recommends that your vehicle be serviced, ask why the service is needed and if it is recommended by the manufacturer. If you are still unsure why a service is required or how it will benefit your vehicle, don’t feel pressured to agree to the service until you can do some research. Additionally, be sure to keep good records of all services done on your vehicle. Many manuals include helpful logs to record your service history and repair information.

    2. Fluid Requirements

    In addition to knowing how often to service your vehicle, it’s also a good idea to know what types of fluids your vehicle requires and when they should be changed. Not following your vehicle’s fluid requirements may cause harm to your vehicle and can void its warranty.

    3. Setup Helpful Reminders

    It can be difficult to remember when your vehicle’s oil needs to be changed or when to rotate the tires. Learn how to take advantage of your vehicle’s reminder system. These easy to use systems are included in many new vehicles and can help you stay up-to-date on important maintenance services.

    4. Interpreting Warning Indicator Lights

    Warning lights vary from vehicle to vehicle and are not always self-explanatory. Refer to your owner’s manual to interpret any warning light that may appear on your vehicle’s control panel. If the light stays illuminated or begins to blink or flash, seek the assistance of a registered repair shop as soon as possible to limit damage to your vehicle and avoid costly repairs.

    5. Warranty Information

    Before agreeing to any repairs on your vehicle, consult your owner’s manual for any parts or repairs that may be covered under your vehicle’s warranty. Also, pay close attention to any products that are not recommended by the manufacturer and any services that may void your warranty if performed.

  • Winter Car Care Tips

    Winter Car Care Tips

      Winter can be hard on cars and challenging for drivers. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip to the mountains or a road trip to visit relatives, the following tips are crucial to keeping you and your family safe and your vehicle running at maximum performance.

    1. Check your owner’s manual and make sure your vehicle is up to date on its recommended maintenance schedule including changing the engine oil and filter, and checking the coolant, brake, automatic transmission, windshield wiper, and steering fluid levels.
    2. Carry tire chains if you’re driving in the mountains or foothills with the possibility of encountering snow.
    3. Check your vehicle’s antifreeze/coolant level if traveling in freezing weather to make sure it will provide adequate freeze protection. A quality repair shop has a tool that can check the antifreeze/coolant.
    4. Pack a winter safety kit and keep it in the trunk of your car. Items should include:- Battery jumper cables
      – Large flashlight and extra batteries
      – Basic first aid supplies
      – Extra blanket and warm clothing
      – Battery-powered radio with spare batteries
      – Tool kit (screwdriver, pliers, adjustable wrench)
      – Bottled water and non-perishable food
      – Highway safety flares in good condition
      – Windshield ice scraper
    5. Check your car’s battery and battery cables for corrosion, cracks, and dirt. Corrosion and loose cables can affect the battery’s performance.
    6. Have the brake system, including pads and linings, checked by a licensed adjuster. Click here to find a licensed brake station in your area.
    7. Check your car’s interior and exterior lights, including turn signals, brake lights, and high beams, to make sure they work. Clean the lenses to get maximum visibility.
    8. Inspect the hoses and belts for cracks, soft spots, or bulges. If you suspect a problem, a licensed repair facility can make the necessary repairs.
    9. Test the heater/defroster system to make sure it is working properly.
    10. Check tires for excessive wear, including the spare. Regularly check the air pressure in all tires. Have your tires rotated at the manufacturer’s recommended intervals.
    11. Change the wiper blades if worn or cracked and refill the wiper fluid. Do not replace wiper fluid with water.
    12. Carry a cell phone for emergencies and make sure it’s fully charged.

    Sound familiar? Many of these tips are the maintenance procedures you should be following all year long. Read your owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for your vehicle. Don’t forget to verify a repair shop’s license before seeking any repairs or maintenance services.