If you have just passed your driving test and are looking forward to car ownership, there is a lot to learn. The modern automobile is a very complex machine, with at least 30,000 separate components, and regular servicing is essential, as you would expect with a vehicle, and with that in mind, here is a basic overview of vehicle maintenance.
- Engine – The power unit of the vehicle, the engine must have the oil replaced at specific mileage intervals, which might be 5,000 – 8,000 miles, and at the same time, the oil filter is replaced, along with the engine air filter, which prevents foreign bodies from entering the engine. All drive belts are inspected for correct tension and wear and tear, replacing when necessary, while the engine coolant level is also checked and topped up when necessary.
- Brakes – It is crucial that your brakes are effective at all times and the brake fluid levels are inspected, plus a visual inspection of the brake pads, looking for excess wear. Finally, the handbrake is checked for correct tension and adjusted if need be.
- Tyres – These are what give you contact with the road surface and they should be checked regularly and if replacements are needed, check out https://tyresdiscountbrisbane.com.au/, who offer top brands at unbeatable prices. The tread area on the tyre needs to have a minimum tread depth of 1.8mm and it should have an even wear, with no bulges or tears on the sidewalls. Tyres should be inflated to the correct psi, which would be specified in the owner’s manual.
- Scheduled Component Replacements – Every component on a car has a lifespan, the number of miles that the part can safely be used, and the owner’s manual would specify which parts, if any, would need to be replaced. Brake pads, for example, usually last for 30-40,000 miles, depending on the driving habits of the owner, plus water and oil pumps have to be inspected, as they have a limited lifespan. Here is an article on teen auto accidents, which makes for a must-read if your child is about to take driving lessons.
- Service history – All maintenance work is recorded in the rear section of the vehicle owner’s manual, which stays with the car throughout its life. When a garage completes a service, they record the details and stamp the page with their official rubber stamp of authenticity. When you want to buy a second-hand car, take a look at the service section at the rear of the owner’s manual to check that the vehicle has been serviced according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Click here for more information on road safety in Australia.
It is impractical to think that your car will always remain in good condition and require no maintenance, indeed, it could be dangerous to ignore service appointments. If you service your car according to the owner’s manual, the vehicle will always be in good condition and ready to use.