You and Your Car: A Woman's Primer - Being Proactive

By Vivi Loob

Organization and Preparedness - Proactive Maintenance - Fluids and Lights

One of the biggest mistakes first-time car owners make is waiting until something breaks before bringing it to a garage. What they don't stop to consider is that it's far better to catch a problem when it's small. Regular maintenance checkups not only save money and time, but will save you from most unexpected breakdowns and extend the life of your car.

Be Proactive

The first time you take an older car to a garage, have them go over it from bumper to bumper. It's highly recommend you choose a garage that not only has all the top diagnostic equipment, but one that also specializes in your type of vehicle and keeps a computerized database of client visits. This way they can help you stay on top of your car's needs.

Your dealership may automatically provide you with a maintenance schedule when buying a new car, but if you have a used or older vehicle, have the garage set one up for you. It should outline lube oil and filter changes, tune-ups, tire rotations, fluid and cooling system flush, transmission service, brake inspections, etc. Most importantly, set up your next appointment as you pay for the current visit. This way you wont have to "remember to" later.

From the Ground Up: The Tires

Once your vehicle has been given a clean bill of health, take a few minutes and look at the tires. A visual inspection takes only a few seconds and can be done every time you get into your car.

Regardless of the type of tires you have, they need to be kept at the proper pressure to perform as designed. Something as simple as a temperature change can cause changes in tire pressure. If there has been a cold snap, your tires may need some air, and if the temperature warms dramatically you could find yourself letting some air out. If you think the pressure has dropped, be safe and check it with a tire gauge.

Tire pressure is usually written on the inside of the driver's side door jam or in the owner's manual. If you can't find it, or can't read it, have the garage tell you want it is and write it down for future reference. Tire pressure for regular passenger vehicles is usually 32 psi (pounds per square inch). And don't forget to check the pressure of your spare tire at least once a month.

If you think a tire has a slow leak, check it for foreign objects before driving to a garage. If you can't see anything lodged between the treads, and it hasn't become too flat, a short drive should be safe. Don't attempt to remove anything you do find, it will be safer just to replace it with the spare. Most slow leaks are caused by a damaged air valve, but the only way to tell for certain is by taking it to a garage. Never drive on a flat; it will only do more damage.

Another thing to keep an eye on is the tire treads. New tires will have a well defined, deep tread pattern. If the treads become shallow and less defined overall, it usually means new tires are needed. Watch for treads that are worn down the center, but not the sides. It's an indication the tires are over pressure - let some air out.

Tire treads can also help you identify other maintenance issues. For instance, if all four tires aren't worn evenly and consistently, you may need an alignment. Try running your hand along the treads; if you feel a bumpiness that isn't consistent with the tread pattern, then it could mean your shocks or struts need replacing.

By having the garage rotate the tires every six months they will wear evenly and last longer. You'll also benefit from a smoother ride and better fuel economy.

Drive safely.

Organization and Preparedness - Proactive Maintenance - Fluids and Lights

Courtesy of Doityourself.com