It is cost-effective to own a used car but there are some things you need to do to keep the used car running smoothly. This means staying on top of vehicle maintenance.
When it comes to cheap used cars, you have to change the engine oil regularly. Engine oil has a big part to play when it comes to lubricating the moving parts of the engine. This will ensure that friction is minimised and it will contribute to less wear. Oil will break down with time and it will not be as effective which will lead to engine issues if you don’t address this. You need to change the engine oil every 3000 miles. This can be done every 5000 miles as well but this depends on the make and model of the car and your driving habits. There is a dipstick located in the engine bay that you can use to check the oil. When the oil looks dark or gritty, you will need to change it. You have to inspect and replace the air filters as well. These are what keep contaminants and debris from entering the engine. This contributes to the fuel efficiency and performance of your vehicle. When the air filter is clogged or dirty, engine performance is reduced and more fuel will be consumed. You need to check the filter from time to time and if it looks clogged or dirty, you need to replace it.
Tyre maintenance has an impact on safety and vehicle performance
These make contact with the road so you need to keep them in good condition. You have to check tyre pressure once a month as this will ensure optimal fuel efficiency and safe handling. There is a recommended tyre pressure level for most cars and you can find this in the owner’s manual. Sometimes this information will be on a sticker inside the driver’s side door. You have to check the tread depth of the tyre so that you can see whether there is sufficient grip on the road. You need to rotate the tyres and get them aligned as well if there are any steering issues or if you feel that the car is pulling to one side.
There are many fluids that you will need to regularly monitor and maintain
This includes the brake fluid, engine coolant and transmission fluid. The temperature of your engine is regulated by coolant and this will prevent overheating. You need to therefore check the level of coolant and top it off from time to time. You need to have sufficient brake fluid for the proper functioning of your vehicle’s braking system. Reduced braking performance will occur as a result of low brake fluid. The transmission is kept running smoothly with transmission fluid and you need to check and replace it in intervals. You have to ensure that the vehicle battery is in good condition. You have to check the terminals for any corrosion. If you find any corrosion, this can be cleaned with a solution of baking soda and water.
