The ABC’s of auto care
Have you ever thought about how to keep your vehicle in great shape? This blog is an effort to help in achieving in that goal.
You might wonder, where do I start with maintaining my vehicle? A great place to start is the owners manual. Somewhere in it will be a maintenance guide. Usually there is a scheduled service guide. This lists what service should be performed, at what mileage interval.
Oil services are the most well known maintenance. It will vary from vehicle to vehicle what the recommendation is. Keep in mind, oil services are based on using the oil, and filter that meets the manufactures specifications. Using the correct oil is critical on modern engines. Not using the correct oil, can be the difference between getting an engine replaced during a vehicle warranty, or not.
Fluid levels should be inspected on a regular basis. A good service facility will let you know if fluids are low when serviced. However, some engine oil can be consumed between services. Most manufactures, have an allowable limit of how much oil can used in a certain mileage. So the oil level should be inspected occasionally.
My suggestion is to start by inspecting the oil level once a month to start. Don’t worry, if you are not a hands on type, most quick lube, and service centers can help you check the level. Just call ahead and ask. If you can check the level, my suggestion is to inspect it after fueling. The ground is usually flat and will help in getting a good level check. Not checking the oil, can be a recipe for disaster.
Some vehicles will warn you when the oil level is low, but not many. Sometimes, I get to be the bearer of ill news. One such example, I was asked to check out a vehicle that did not start. Attempting to crank the engine there was a loud clunk. That is never a good sound. I inspected the oil, and there was not any showing on the level check. I suspected a seized engine due to no lubrication. After a couple of tests, I confirmed the engine was seized, and I had to share that with the customer.
That is to be continued, just like this blog. If you have a specific auto / truck question feel free to reach out. I will do my best to answer it, or to find some resources to answer. Till next time - be blessed.