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8 Things You Should Check In Your Car Regularly.
Preventative maintenance can save you a fortune in repair costs. However, it’s wildly overlooked by a lot of us so we’ve put together 8 things to check frequently, and when they need to be changed.
1. FUEL FILTER
Probably the most overlooked item under the bonnet. Assuming yours is a fuel-injected car, which most will be, the fuel filter is more or less on continuous duty. So, over time, a replacement will be necessary.
When to replace: Every 2 years or 24,000 miles.
2. POWER-STEERING FLUID
It doesn’t get much easier than power steering fluid. However, you still need to give it proper attention, since it lubricates the system and keeps the steering feel consistent. Periodic checks of the fluid are done with a glance at the reservoir or the dipstick inside it.
When to replace: Inspect level with every engine oil change, top off as needed.
3. AIR FILTER
Air for the engine and air flow sensor has to be free of contaminates, which is the responsibility of the air filter (funnily enough). Be aware of manufacturer recommendations for replacing related airflow components like the PCV valve and oxygen sensor, if your car has them.
When to replace: 12 months, 12,000 miles or as needed.
4. SPARK PLUGS
Spark plugs fire up the mixture of air and fuel in each cylinder. Advances in technology have led to less maintenance and extended service, but they still need to be replaced. Whether or not they’ve reached their mileage limit, they (and the plug wires) could be to blame when fuel consumption suffers and the engine runs poorly.
When to replace: Every 30,000 to 100,000 miles.
5. ENGINE BELTS & TIMING BELTS
Engine belts should have a prominent spot on your car part replacement list. The one or more belts keep components like your alternator and water pump active. Inside, the timing belt keeps valves from cracking into pistons. It’s bad news if either belt fails. At worst, you’ll need major engine work at the mechanic in the case of some timing belt breakage and the resulting carnage.
When to replace: Every 3 years or 36,000 miles for engine belts or 60,000 to 90,000 miles for the timing belt.
6. COOLANT
Coolant serves as antifreeze, coolant and guards against corrosion in the cooling system. So, given its duties, it should be high up on your car part replacement calendar. Topping off and changing should only be done with the right coolant type and water mixture ratio (typically 50/50).
When to replace: Every 2 years or 24,000 miles.
7. TYRES
Eventually, you’ll need fresh tyres. The best way to confirm is with a tread depth gauge. However, you can use a coin. Age is also a concern.
When to replace: At the minimum safe tread depth or every 4 years.
8. BRAKES
Check the fluid level and change it every so often. Keep an eye on brake-pad condition, and replace as soon as safety is compromised. Obviously, brakes are a pretty vital part of your safety so make sure these are top of your checklist.
When to replace: Every 2 years or 24,000 miles (fluid), prior to the minimum safe thickness (pads).
Hope you found these car checks useful ?
Credit: Keyfleet
