You will need your car to get to your destination quickly. Also, your car is a long-term investment, and you will want it to give you the value for your money. However, if you are a car enthusiast, you are likely to have another perception of the car. The truth is that maintaining your car timely will be quite beneficial to you in the long-term. There are two types of maintenance – one that is done after a part breaks down or requires replacement and another called preventive maintenance.
You should note that a car is made up of different components that vary in size and functionality. There are certain things you can service and inspect yourself if you have little knowledge of cars. Other things ought to be addressed by a qualified mechanic. These are car maintenance tips you should know.
Inspect Your Air Filter
An important component of the car is the air filter. Although the air filter is quite small, its job is vital for the smooth running of your vehicle. That is because as the car moves, it continuously pulls in air to mix it with fuel for combustion. However, atmospheric air is not 100% clean. Thus, it is the task of the air filter to filter out the debris and dirt from the air before it gets into the mixture.
Inspect the Car Battery
You should note that the car’s battery powers all the electrical systems and lights. Moreover, it provides power to the starter motor to crank the engine when you turn the key. If the battery is not in the right shape, you are likely to get stranded because the car won’t crank. Therefore, it is a good idea to inspect and change the car’s battery after a few years.
Change the Engine Oil Timely
The engine requires oil for lubrication. Efficient lubrication helps increase the lifespan of the engine. Therefore, a timely oil change is quite important. Ideally, a car low on oil is likely to break down and require extensive repairs at a huge cost. You may even need to replace the engine’s oil.
Check and Replace Spark Plugs
Unfortunately, most vehicle owners forget to check and replace spark plugs during vehicle maintenance. Depending on the vehicle’s make and model, your car is likely to have four or more spark plugs that ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine. Over time, they get deposits of carbon, which can interfere with the ignition timing and quality.