General Maintenance

Tune-Up

general maintenance for cars in Englewood, fl

Contrary to popular assumption, modern automobiles still require tune-ups to maintain their highest levels of performance. The traditional “tune-up” was once the core of the automotive industry.

The processes needed to carry out a typical tune-up underwent a significant change as technology advanced more quickly. Modern vehicles typically have highly advanced ignition and fuel systems that use one or more onboard computers to conduct crucial engine and transmission management duties.

You won’t be able to go where you’re going if the car isn’t being properly maintained. The following systems should be examined as part of the 21st Century Tune-up on today’s new cars: the battery, the charging and starting engine, the mechanical powertrain control (including onboard diagnostic tests), the fuel ignition, and the emissions.

The Car Care Council also suggests that drivers take the time necessary to familiarize themselves with their vehicles in order to help ensure good performance, fuel economy, and emissions. To fully understand how all systems operate, read through the owner’s manual. Pay close attention to the instruments and indicator lights.

Getting Your Vehicle Ready for Winter

Mechanical Failure
A nuisance whenever it happens, but particularly dangerous in the winter. A must-do is preventive maintenance. Driving a well-maintained car is more fun, it lasts longer, and it might sell for more money.

The following advice can be used by anyone who enjoys DIY projects, however others call for the expertise of a qualified car specialist.

Engine Performance

Visit a reputable repair shop to have any engine driveability issues (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, lower power, etc.) fixed. Cold weather exacerbates already existing issues. Replace clogged fuel, air, and other filters.

Fuel

To prevent moisture from freezing in the fuel line, place a bottle of gasoline de-icer in your tank once a month. Keep in mind that a full tank of gas prevents moisture from accumulating.

Oil

As directed in your owner’s handbook, replace your oil and oil filter every 3,000 miles, or more frequently if you drive a lot in stop-and-go traffic or make lots of short journeys.

Windshield Wipers

Sharpen worn-out blades. To combat ice buildup in extreme climates, buy rubber-coated (winter) blades. You’ll be amazed at how much windshield washer solution you use, so stock up. Carry an ice-scraper.

Heater/Defroster

For passenger comfort and driver vision, the heater and defroster must be in good functioning order. A cabin air filter is present in more recent versions and should be frequently changed. For information on the location and replacement cycle, consult your owner’s manual.

Lights

Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; periodically clean road grime from all lenses. To prevent scratching, never use a dry rag.

Exhaust System

You should elevate your car and check for leaks in the exhaust system. Look for any little holes in the floor boards and trunk. Expired fuel can be fatal.

Carry Emergency Gear

Gloves, boots, a small shovel, sand or cat litter, tire chains, a flash light, and flares are all necessary emergency supplies. In your glove compartment, place a couple “high-energy” snacks.

Cooling Systems

Every 24 months or so, the cooling system should be properly cleansed out and refilled. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. DIYers, wait until the engine has completely cooled before removing the radiator cap (anti-freeze and water should typically be mixed 50/50). A professional should inspect the tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses.

Battery

Only specialized equipment can reliably identify a poor battery. Regular maintenance includes cleaning all surfaces, tightening all connections, and scraping off rust from posts and cable connectors. If the battery caps are removable, periodically check the fluid level. Avoid coming into contact with battery acid and corrosive residues. Wear rubber gloves and eye protection.

Tires

In the winter, worn tires won’t be very useful. Check the sidewalls of the tires for cuts and nicks and inspect the tread for any remaining tread life, uneven wear, and cupping. Once every month, check the tire pressure. Before doing any kind of long drive, inspect the tires when they are cold. Rotate as advised. Keep your spare with you, and make sure the jack is in good working order.

Getting Your Vehicle Ready For Summer

Your car will suffer from the heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic of the summer. You can be headed for a collapse if you add the aftereffects of the previous winter. You can lessen the odds of mechanical failure through periodic maintenance. Your vehicle should last longer and command a higher resale price, too! The following advice can be done by anyone, although some require a qualified vehicle technician.

Air Conditioning

Cooling System

Oil

Engine Performance

Windshield Wipers

Lights

Tires

Brakes

Battery

Emergencies

Air Conditioning

A marginally operating system will fail in hot weather. Have the system examined by a qualified technician. Newer models have cabin air filters that clean the air entering the heating and air conditioning system. Check your owner’s manual for location and replacement interval.

Cooling System

Overheating is the main reason for breakdowns in the summer. The cooling system should be properly cleansed and refilled about every 24 months. Periodically check on the coolant’s level, quality, and concentration. DIYers, wait until the engine has completely cooled before removing the radiator cap (anti-freeze and water should typically be mixed 50/50). A professional should inspect the tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses.

Oil

Change your oil and oil filter as indicated in your manual – more often (every 3,000 miles) if you do numerous short jaunts, extended journeys with lots of luggage, or tow a trailer.

Engine Performance

In dusty conditions, replace other filters (air, fuel, PCV, etc.) more frequently than suggested. Visit a reputable shop to have any engine driveability issues (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, lower power, etc.) fixed.

Windshield Wipers

A dirty windshield causes eye fatigue and can pose a safety hazard. Replace worn blades and get plenty of windshield washer solvent.

Lights

Examine all lights and bulbs; replace any that have burned out; and routinely wipe any debris or insects from any lenses. Never ever use a dry rag to prevent scratching.

Tires

Have your tires rotated about every 5,000 miles. Once a month, check the tire pressure; do so before a long drive while the tires are still cold. Make sure the jack is in good shape and don’t forget to check your spare. Check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks and inspect the tread life, uneven wear, and cupping of the tires. If your car pulls to one side or the tread wear is uneven, an alignment is necessary.

Brakes

As directed in your owner’s manual, you should have your brakes tested every so often, or sooner if you experience pulsations, grabs, noises, or a longer stopping distance. Minor brake problems should be remedied soon.

Battery

Any time of the year, batteries can fail. The only accurate technique to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. Regular maintenance includes cleaning all surfaces, tightening all connections, and scraping off corrosion from posts and cable connections. Check the fluid level once a month if the battery caps are removable. Avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear rubber gloves and eye protection.

Emergencies

Carry some basic tools; seek advice from a technician. Add a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and flares as well. Think about getting a cell phone.

Keeping your vehicle in tune

With the environment, everything is positively advantageous. According to a survey of ASE-certified Master Auto Technicians, a well maintained and managed car will run more efficiently, be safer, and last longer — up to 50% longer.

The following advice should get you started on the path to eco-friendly auto general maintenance.

Remember, how your car runs, how you drive it, and how its fluids, old parts, and tires are disposed of all have serious consequences on the environment.

Tune up your engine. As much as 30% less fuel can be used when a spark plug is misfiring.
Pay attention to the maintenance schedules in your owner's manual. Filters and fluids should be changed as directed.
Verify that your tires are properly inflated. Fuel is wasted when tires are underinflated since your engine needs to work harder to move the car.
Incorrectly aligned wheels also put more strain on the engine, as shown by uneven tread wear or vehicle tugging. Tires that are properly cared for will last longer, requiring less frequent disposal of trash tires. Maintain speed restrictions. Above 60 mph, mileage drastically declines.
Drive carefully. Avoid jerky stops and starts and unexpected accelerations. On open highways, use cruise control to maintain a constant speed.

Limit your idle time. Stop the car as you wait for family and friends.
Forget about those five-minute warm-ups on chilly winter mornings; modern vehicles are built to "warm up" quickly.
Take unnecessary goods out of the car. Better mileage comes with less loads.
To reduce air drag, place luggage and cargo in the trunk rather than on the top.
Take travels. Your everyday errands can be combined to reduce unnecessary driving. To avoid stop-and-go traffic, try to travel at times of light traffic.
Embrace a carpool.