Do Not Be Intimidated by Car Maintenance

Cars are like electric lights. We often do not appreciateaway that ice and sleet!
them until they go on the blink. Regular maintenanceBe sure all your lights are clean and working, including
checks and simple service can greatly reduce the costbrake lights, turn signals and emergency flashers. You
of car ownership and keep you a much happiercan perform this quick check while filling up your gas
traveler!tank.
Do not let the thought of car maintenance intimidateCheck your tires once a month and give a look over
you. There are actually several car maintenance tipsfor cuts, bulges, or nails or other foreign objects
you can do even if you are totally mechanicallysticking out.
challenged!Take your car to your friendly serviceman once a
For instance, you will want to keep your windshieldmonth and have the pressure in your tires checked.
washer fluid reservoir full. This involves screwing offThis service should cost you less than five bucks, if
the cap and pouring windshield wiper fluid in the rightanything.
spot. You can quickly check the fluid levels when fillingEvery three months have your oil and oil filter changed.
up at the gas station.Many times an inspection is done during the oil change.
While you have got the windshield washer fluid out,It is worth it to pay a little extra if you have to and
pour some on a rag and clean the bug guts, etc. offhave this done. Ask to have your battery checked,
the wiper blades.too.
If you see any colored fluid leaking from your car, get itHave your air filter changed when it gets dirty. You
serviced immediately.can ask the folks who change your oil to check the air
If you smell any peculiar odor coming from your car,filter. They are happy to change it for you.
take it to the nearest service station. Odors meanNo matter how non car savvy you may have felt in
something inappropriate is going on under the hood ofthe past, finding that you can do some simple
your car!maintenance checks puts you in the drivers seat. You
Every fall, go ahead and replace your wiper blades.are likely to discover in advance if your car has a
You need new ones once a year so you might asproblem that should be taken care of immediately.
well get them before winter sets in and you are wiping