Top Five Car Care Do's
Your car needs an oil change or a tire rotation. It's one more chore on your never-ending "to-do" list, and sometimes it just falls through the cracks. You're not alone. Last year, AAA vehicle inspection events held during Car Care Month uncovered a variety of maintenance issues that were well on their way to becoming real problems for vehicle owners.
1. TIRE PRESSURE
WHY: Over-inflated tires ride roughly and suffer premature wear at the center of their tread. Underinflated tires decrease fuel economy, cause imprecise handling, suffer premature wear at the edges of their tread and can overheat and fail at highway speeds.
WHEN: Check the tire pressures (including the spare) at least once a month when the tires are cold. Tire information is located in the glove box, on a door jamb or the underside of the trunk lid.
2. ENGINE AIR FILTER
WHY: The air filter prevents dust and dirt from entering the engine. A dirty or clogged air filter restricts airflow and reduces engine performance and fuel economy.
WHEN: Check the air filter every six months or 7,500 miles. Hold it up to a 60-watt light bulb. If you can see light through much of the filter, it is still clean enough to work effectively. However, if the light is blocked by most of the filter, replace it.
3. BATTERY CABLES/CLAMPS/TERMINALS
WHY: If these components and connections become corroded or loose, your car won’t have the power needed to start the engine and operate other systems.
WHEN: They should be inspected at every oil change. If there are signs of corrosion, or you notice other indications of electrical problems.
4. WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID
WHY: Rain, insects, grime and other debris on your windshield will compromise your vision.
WHEN: Check your washer fluid reservoir monthly. Top it up with a washer solution formulated to aid in the removal of insects and other debris, and, during winter months, be sure to use a solution with antifreeze protection.
5. ENGINE OIL
WHY: Without clean oil, your engine will wear more rapidly, and could even seize and be destroyed. Lighter oils reach critical engine lubrication areas much quicker than heavier oils, significantly reducing wear.
WHEN: Change your engine’s oil and oil filter at the specified intervals. Always use the weight of oil recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer for the existing temperature conditions.
For your next auto service or repair stop by AAA’s Car Center in Clifton Park, ranked No. 1 in the nation in 2018, based on our members’ and customers’ feedback. We’re confident you’ll be pleased with the quality of the service and new member pricing you’ll receive. Visit AAA.com/CarCare or call 518-831-1861 to schedule your appointment. We look forward to seeing you.
