Today’s vehicles are so technologically advanced that most drivers don’t even know how they work. While it isn’t important to be thoroughly versed in your vehicle’s systems, you should have a basic understanding of which parts of your vehicle have the greatest impact on safety, dependability and performance and stick to a regular maintenance schedule in order to keep you and your family safe on the road and avoid costly repairs. Auto Clinic of Flamborough has put together a cheat sheet of car care tips for you to brush up on your automotive knowledge.
CAR CARE TIPS FROM AUTO CLINIC OF FLAMBOROUGH
Below are some of the important systems you should have serviced and inspected on a regular basis. Always refer to your vehicle's owner's manual or our online maintenance schedule for detailed recommended service intervals.
BRAKES
Your brakes should be inspected during all routine visits or if there is any indication they aren’t performing correctly. Auto Clinic of Flamborough recommends you have your brakes inspected every 10,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. Your brake fluid also should be changed every 50,000 km.
COOLING SYSTEM
If your cooling system has a problem, it could cause excessive wear on your engine and can lead to expensive repairs. Be sure to have your cooling system checked during routine maintenance and have the coolant changed every 40,000 km.
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMS
If your emission control system does not function properly, your vehicle will experience poor fuel economy and performance.
FILTERS
Auto Clinic of Flamborough inspects your engine and cabin air filters during your routine inspection and changes your oil filter during oil changes. You should also have your fuel filter replaced regularly and changed when necessary.
FLUIDS
Today’s cars often can travel farther before having the oil changed; consult your owner’s manual to determine the proper interval for your vehicle. During oil changes, other fluids including engine coolant and transmission, power steering and brake fluids should be checked.
SUSPENSION
Suspension systems are important not only for a comfortable ride but also to maintain proper tire-to-road contact. If your suspension does not operate properly, your tires can wear down faster.
BRAKES
Your brakes should be inspected during all routine visits or if there is any indication they aren’t performing correctly. Auto Clinic of Flamborough recommends you have your brakes inspected every 20,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. Your brake fluid also should be changed every 45,000 km.
TIRES
Properly inflated tires promote safer driving and better fuel economy, so it’s important to check your tire pressure routinely and replace damaged tires immediately. Auto Clinic of Flamborough inspects your tire pressure during every visit.
SPARK PLUGS
Spark plugs impact engine performance and emissions and should be replaced at regular intervals.
WINDSHIELD WIPERS & LIGHTS
Windshield wipers are often neglected, but they can have a major impact on your driving safety and should be replaced immediately when showing signs of not functioning properly. You should also conduct periodic checks of your headlights and brake, turn signal and reverse lights.
Regular maintenance of your vehicle goes a long way to keeping you safe on the road, saving money in costly repairs brought about by neglect, and avoiding breaking down.
If any of your vehicle’s systems do not operate properly, contact us right away to schedule a professional inspection.