CAR CARE TIPS

1. Maintain Your Tires

How often to change your tires/how to know when you need new tires: 

• Tires generally last between 3-6 years and up to 50,000 miles. They should be replaced if you notice excessive wear, balding, or bulging in the sidewall. 
• A simple test: Insert a penny upside down into the tread. If Lincoln’s head is covered, your tires still have plenty of life. 

How often should you rotate your tires: 

• Tire rotation is recommended regularly, about every 6,000 miles, or as outlined in your car’s manual. Note that some performance vehicles don’t require rotation due to different-sized tires front and back. 

How/Where to add air to your tires: 

• Most cars have a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). If you need to check manually, use a tire pressure gauge, compare it to the recommended PSI listed inside the driver’s door, and fill it up at public air compressors or use a portable air compressor in your trunk. 

2. Check Your Engine Oil

How often to change your oil: 

• Follow your car’s owner’s manual for oil change intervals. Most vehicles need an oil change every 4,000 to 8,000 miles. Even if you don’t reach that mileage, change your oil annually, as oil can degrade over time. 

How to check oil levels: 

• Use the dipstick to check the oil level. Wipe it clean, insert it back, and check if the oil level falls within the acceptable range. 

What type of oil to use: 

• Look for oil specifications in your owner’s manual. Common oils are synthetic and conventional. You’ll see viscosity ratings like 10W30, where 10 is for cold temperatures, and 30 is for normal driving conditions. 

3. Check Other Important Fluids

• Fluids like brake fluid, coolant, transmission fluid, and power-steering fluid are vital. Check these regularly as low or dirty fluids can cause major issues. 
• Windshield washer fluid is easy to check as it runs out when you try to use it. 

4. Check Your Lights

• Headlights, taillights, brake lights, and license plate lights should all be functioning for both safety and legal reasons. 
• Regularly test all lights by walking around the car or asking someone to check the brake lights. 

5. Inspect and Replace Windshield Wipers

How often to replace wipers: 

• Depending on your environment, wiper blades should be replaced annually or more frequently in harsher climates. 

How to know what type of wipers: 

• Consult your car’s manual or look up the specific wiper sizes in the auto parts store. 

6. Change Air Filters

Engine air filter: 

• Check for dirt and debris in the airbox. Replace it if it’s clogged or discolored. 

Cabin air filter: 

• Replace it annually or when you notice a funky smell or weak airflow from your vents. 

7. Test Your Car Battery

How to test your battery: 

• Use a multimeter to check the voltage of your battery. If it’s below 12.4 volts, you may need a replacement. 

How often to replace your battery: 

• Car batteries typically last 2 to 5 years. Keep an eye out for signs of weakness, like slow starts. 

8. Inspect Your Brakes

Brake pads: 

• Check your brake pads regularly. If there’s only a quarter inch of material left, it’s time for new ones. Be mindful of squealing or pulsating when braking. 

How often to replace brake pads: 

• Brake pads can last anywhere from 10,000 to 50,000 miles. Driving habits (e.g., heavy braking) will affect how quickly they wear. 

9. Check Belts and Hoses

• Signs to replace: 

• Frayed belts and cracked hoses can cause severe engine problems. Inspect them for wear and replace them before they fail. 

10. Keep Your Car Clean

Wash the exterior: 

• Regularly wash your car to remove dirt, salt, and debris. Apply wax once a year to protect the paint and prevent damage. 

Clean the interior: 

• Vacuum the seats and carpets. Use a cleaning wipe for dashboards, consoles, and door panels. Treat stains with specialized cleaners. 

Conclusion 

Regular maintenance can keep your car running smoothly and prevent expensive repairs. Always refer to your owner’s manual for specific intervals and recommendations. Keeping a log of your vehicle’s service history will also help retain its value and ensure warranty protection.