Maintenance tips to keep your vehicle in good operating condition
A well-maintained vehicle is very important! This will ensure your safety as well as the safety of your passengers and your fellow drivers. There are a few maintenance tips you can do to keep your vehicle in good operating condition.
Check the spark plugs and wires
Spark plugs supply the spark that ignites the air and fuel mixture, creating an explosion that makes your engine produce power.
Continuous use of spark plugs will wear them out just like any other part of the engine. Generally, older spark plugs make the engine run rougher, which can cause malfunctions or outright failures. Regular spark plugs and wires will require a change at roughly 50,000 km. It might run shorter or longer depending on the type or age of your car. Spark plugs on some engines may wear out more quickly, for instance, if they have a start-stop function. With better plugs and wires, you will be able to ensure that you have optimal electrical current flowing through your engine. It can also improve fuel efficiency.
Inspect the tires
If your tire goes flat, it can pose a safety threat to you and your car. In order to prevent a blowout, you can rotate your tires every 5,000 to 10,000 miles and watch for tire recalls.
Avoid emptying your fuel tank
Ideally, your fuel pump needs to be submerged in fuel. It will suck in air instead of fuel if the fuel tank is empty, causing wear and tear. Furthermore, a mismatch between fuel and air can also cause the engine to stall.
Go easy when accelerating and braking
The stress of abrupt acceleration not only burns more fuel than usual but also wears out metal components in the engine. During hard braking, your Antilock Braking System (ABS) may also be activated unnecessarily, adding extra pressure to the system. This can negatively affect the engine of your car. In addition, the ABS can endanger the driver if it fails to trigger at the correct time.
Change the oil
Routinely checking and changing your car's oil is essential to keeping its engine in running condition. The engine oil should be checked and changed every month, either by yourself or at a car workshop.
Regular check-ups
You can carry out some routine car care tasks yourself, but others require service from a trained technician. When the check engine light goes on, have your car inspected by a technician. An experienced technician can diagnose the problem through the car's onboard diagnostic (OBD-II) port. Additionally, a qualified repair shop will be able to inspect and replace other key components, such as the alternator and the wheel bearings. By scheduling regular check-ups, you will ensure that you have other maintenance items repaired as well. Find out more about ways to reduce car insurance premiums in Singapore.