General Maintenance For Your Vehicle
The traditional core of the automotive industry, known as the "tune-up," has undergone significant changes over time. Despite some misconceptions, contemporary vehicles still require tune-ups for optimal performance.
With the rapid advancement of technology, the processes involved in carrying out a conventional tune-up have undergone a substantial transformation. Advanced ignition and fuel systems have become standard, incorporating one or more onboard computers to regulate essential engine and transmission functions.
Failure to maintain the vehicle appropriately will hinder your ability to reach your desired destination. In the 21st Century Tune-up for modern vehicles, it is essential to inspect the following systems: battery, charging and starting engine, mechanical powertrain control (including onboard diagnostic checks), fuel ignition, and emissions.
To ensure optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and reduced emissions, the Car Care Council advises motorists to invest time in understanding their vehicles. Familiarize yourself thoroughly with the operation of all systems by studying the owner's manual. Pay close attention to indicator lights and instruments.
Getting Your Vehicle Ready for Winter
Some of the following tips can be performed by any do-it-yourselfer; others require the skilled hands of a professional auto technician.
Heater/Defroster
The heater and defroster must be in good working condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility. Newer models have a cabin air filter that should be replaced periodically. Check your owner's manual for the location and replacement interval.
Battery
The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check fluid level monthly. Avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.
Tires
Worn tires will be of little use in winter weather. Examine tires for remaining tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Check tire pressures once a month. Check the tires when they are cold, before driving for any distance. Rotate as recommended. Don't forget your spare, and be sure the jack is in good condition.
Getting Your Vehicle Ready For Summer
Summer's heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic, will take their toll on your vehicle. Add the effects of last winter, and you could be poised for a breakdown. You can lessen the odds of mechanical failure through periodic maintenance. Your vehicle should last longer and command a higher resale price, too! Some of the following tips are easy to do; others require a skilled auto technician.
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
The greatest cause of summer breakdowns is overheating. The cooling system should be completely flushed and refilled about every 24 months. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water is usually recommended.) DIYers, never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled! The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked by a pro.
Brakes
Brakes should be inspected as recommended in your manual, or sooner if you notice pulsations, grabbing, noises, or longer stopping distance. Minor brake problems should be corrected promptly.
Discover More About General Maintenance Tips At Sevy's Auto Repair in New Castle
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Having owned a business in a competitive market for over 30 years, you succeed or fail by your workmanship and your customer service. Sevy's gets an A+ from me! The engine in my 2004 Ford Explorer needed costly repairs, after considering a used engine, John recommended I consider a rebuilt engine from Jasper. With a 3 year or 100,000 mile warranty it was an easy decision. Sevy's mechanics are great! Had my Explorer back in a week. Had a minor problem, Sevy's took care of it immediately. Having worked on my own cars and motorcycles, I was impressed by the quality workmanship. Christy, John, and Tom are the best up front, and the service is great in the shop! I will recommend Sevy's to my friends and family. In fact I already have!
I had heard about Sevy's from a close friend who has told me literally for years that he would not let anybody touch his cars except Sevy's. In fact, several decades ago they even fixed his bike (true!) for free, something he has never forgotten. I have an old Lexus SUV that has been sorely neglected ever since I bought it, which was in 2005. I lost faith in the Lexus dealership when they told me once that to fix a tail light would cost over $2,000. I was shocked and they said, 'We have to drop the entire bumper." They did not know it but I knew a young kid who worked for them doing minor stuff. He laughed and fixed it in 5 minutes for me in the driveway of his house. I gave him $50. I watched him do it. So anyway, my old Lexus was on its last legs, conking out when driving, and I live in North Wilmington. I took it to the usual suspects to fix it, like Pep Boys and elsewhere, and they wanted nothing to do with it. They tried, and finally it was 'take it to the Dealer, that is the only thing you can do.' I figured I had finally blown my engine, among other things. I called my buddy and he said, of course, 'take it to Sevy's, they are honest and cheap and great' (he began bragging about them), so I had it towed from my driveway all the way down to New Castle. That was about 7 months ago, and my car is running tip top to this very moment. They fixed about a dozen things, gave me a long list of what they did etc., also a tremendous price for all they did. Honest, extremely competent. Friendly too, down to earth. My buddy was right of course! And I will of course continue to neglect it but now at least I know I have a great mechanic.