No make these mistakes when maintaining your car: essential guide for beginners
The basic maintenance of a car is essential to prolong its lifespan and ensure its full operation. Below is a detailed guide covering all the key areas to keep your vehicle in excellent condition.
SUMMARY:
| Main Idea | Details |
|---|---|
| 🔧 Proper maintenance | Prevent breakdowns and prolong the life of the car |
| 🛠 Regular inspections | Perform oil changes and check brakes and battery |
| 🔋 Battery status | Important for the engine and electrical systems of the car |
| 🛑 Brake inspection | Check discs and pads for road safety |
The importance of proper car maintenance
Proper maintenance of your car not only prevents costly breakdowns but also ensures its optimal performance and extends the lifespan of its components. Poor maintenance can lead to severe problems, from mechanical failures to accelerated deterioration of crucial parts.
One of the first activities of preventive maintenance is to conduct regular inspections, which includes oil changes, brake checks, and battery inspections. These simple care tasks can save you hundreds of euros in repairs and prevent dangerous situations on the road.
Preventive maintenance: the first step
Preventive maintenance involves performing regular tasks that keep your vehicle in good condition. Some of these tasks include:
- Engine oil replacement: This operation should be done every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers.
- Inspection of air and fuel filters: Changing them regularly prevents the accumulation of dirt and improves efficiency.
- Spark plug replacement: This should be done according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
These simple steps not only improve your car’s performance but also prevent unexpected breakdowns that can be costly.
Key elements for maintaining your car
1. Battery
The battery is essential for the functioning of the engine and the car’s electrical systems. It should be checked regularly to ensure it does not discharge unexpectedly.
During long periods of inactivity, such as quarantine, the battery can discharge automatically due to functionalities like the anti-theft alarm. Therefore, it is imperative to inspect it if the car has not been used regularly.
| Action | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Check terminals | Each time the hood is opened |
| Check for fluid loss | Each time the hood is opened |
| Inspect general condition | Every 6 months |
2. Filters
Modern cars use various types of filters: oil, air, fuel, and cabin filters. These should be regularly checked and cleaned to avoid dirt accumulation and ensure the car’s good performance.
- Change the air filter every 5,000 kilometers.
- Replace the fuel filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
3. Brakes
The brakes are part of the “Safety Triangle” along with the tires and shock absorbers. They must be kept in optimal condition by regularly checking the discs and pads. Changing the brake shoes before a decrease in braking response is crucial for your safety.
A detailed brake inspection will ensure consistent performance and prevent dangerous issues. Additionally, using a good lubricant to maintain the system’s fluidity is a recommended practice.
4. Tires
The tires are the only point of contact between your car and the road. Checking their pressure and wear regularly is vital to ensure safety.
Keep the following points in mind:
- Check tire pressure at least once a month.
- Ensure that the tread depth is not less than 1.6 mm.
- Check the load capacity and road conditions.
And also
In addition to the above, there are other components of the car that also require regular attention:
Shock absorbers
It is crucial to check the condition of the shock absorbers, especially considering road conditions, vehicle load, and weather. They provide comfort and safety in driving by controlling the vehicle in risky situations.
Timing belt
The timing belt is responsible for synchronizing the 4 strokes of the engine and the opening and closing of valves. Changing it according to the manufacturer’s timelines prevents serious damage to the engine.
Coolant
The coolant prevents the water in the circuit from freezing and helps expel heat generated by combustion. It should be checked regularly and replenished when necessary to ensure adequate cooling of the engine.
Windshield wipers
Maintaining good visibility is essential. The blades of the windshield wipers should be in good condition, and it is recommended to change them every six months.
Exhaust system and catalysts
The exhaust system and catalysts reduce pollutant emissions and engine noise. Ensuring their proper functioning is essential to comply with environmental regulations and ensure efficient engine operation.
Maintenance by mileage
| Mileage | Maintenance Tasks |
|---|---|
| 10,000-15,000 km | Oil change, brake inspection, tire rotation |
| 30,000-40,000 km | Filter inspection, battery check, transmission system check |
| 60,000-80,000 km | Major maintenance of components, timing belt change |
Preventive maintenance translates to reliability and efficiency in every journey. It is not just about following a routine, but understanding how each component is vital to the overall functioning of the vehicle.
Learn more about how technology can assist in automotive maintenance, and stay informed about the latest trends in the automotive industry.
Common car maintenance mistakes and how to avoid them
One of the most common mistakes in car maintenance is ignoring the manufacturer’s recommendations. Every vehicle has its specifications, and neglecting them can result in serious damage.
- Not following the recommended maintenance intervals.
- Using parts and oils not suitable for your car model.
- Ignoring warning signals on the dashboard.
To ensure effective maintenance, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and keep a record of all interventions performed. This not only ensures the car’s optimal functioning but also increases its resale value.
In difficult times, such as after the COVID-19 quarantine, it is important to keep your vehicles sanitized and check key components like the battery and tire pressure.
The basic maintenance of a car is not just a necessary task, but a practice that can significantly extend the life of your vehicle and ensure its performance at all times.
