Acquiring your first car is a pivotal moment in your life because you have a broader range of freedom than before. Like all machines, vehicles require maintenance to ensure they function well on the road. These tips will help you understand what to look for and inspect if you want to maintain your first car.
Inspect the Engine Often
The engine is the powerhouse that causes the car to move and powers the movements of various parts, such as the drive train and the wheels. Multiple areas of the engine require your attention because of the constant output to power the car. The air filters require replacements every 15,000 to 30,000 miles to ensure particulates and small objects don’t infiltrate the engine and cause internal malfunctions.
Prioritize the condition of the engine’s fluids, such as oil and coolant, to ensure the engine is lubricated and doesn’t overheat. Keeping these fluids filled above halfway will help you remain safe and steady on the road without worrying about something going wrong. Inspect the engine to ensure everything works accordingly and get a better idea of what a working engine looks like. With this knowledge, you can spot issues more easily in the future.
Go Easy on the Brakes
Driving requires the constant use of brakes to slow down and stop. You’ll want to use the brakes carefully to maintain your first car, as too much weight will stress the brake system.
When you step on the brake pedal, brake fluid travels to the brake system, which includes multiple parts like the brake pads and rotors. The brake fluid creates pressure that causes the brake pads to push against the rotor to create friction to slow the vehicle.
Braking too hard or for long periods is one of the most common mistakes people make that wear down their brakes, leading to various problems. If you constantly slam on the brakes, you’ll create too much pressure on the hose that transfers the fluid and may cause it to crack. Your brake pads will also wear down faster and make braking more difficult. Both results will require maintenance at an auto repair shop and result in potentially high fees.
It’s Okay To Splurge on Better Oil
Oil ensures the engine’s moving parts are lubricated and prevents them from scraping against each other. Thick oil lasts longer on the parts and eliminates strenuous work for the engine, allowing the parts to move easily. Spending more money on better quality oil is a reasonable expense to keep up maintenance on your first car and prevent future engine problems.
You’ll need to care for multiple aspects of your first car. Use these tips as a quick maintenance guide to ensure your vehicle functions well and you have the chance to enjoy your first car.
