Car Care Maintenance Checks
Take care of your car and it will take care of you.
Vehicle Owners Manual - Yes it's dry reading material, but a great source of advice for specific types of maintenance. Its always a good first place to check, otherwise you can use some of the general intevals listed below. Remember, climates with intense heat and harsh driving conditions like those present in Southern Arizona typically fall within the extreme service category and shorter mainteance intervals for most vehicles.
Increasing the life of your tires.
Keep them pumped up, tires naturally lose air! Low tire pressure causes rapid tire wear and is the simplest way to extend tire life. It is not unusual for a healthy tire to lose one pound (1 psi) of air every month and cold temperatures will also drop tire pressure about 1 psi for every 10°F drop in temperature, so checking tire pressure is important every month and before taking any trip. You'll find the recommended pressure listed in the owner’s manual or on a door placard on the driver’s side door jamb. Don't forget to check the air pressure in your spare tire, you want to have that done before any major road trip.
Rotating Tires to reduce uneven wear Rotating tires every 6,000 miles will help reduce uneven wear. Waiting too long may actually prevent you from being able to rotate them at all as tire professionals and manufacturer's now recommend keeping your best tires on the rear of the vehicle to provide the most stable driving (meaning more tread on rear tires). Tires are worn out once they reach 2/32nds of remaining tread so if you place a penny into the tread area of your tire and you can see all of Lincoln's head - its time for tires. Regular wheel alignments will also increase lifespan by reducing tire wear and a good alignment can also eliminate the car pulling to either side when driving. If you notice bouncing or wobbling at lower speeds you may have a tire or suspension issue. A shaking, shuddering vibration at higher speeds may be resolved by having your tires balanced. Finally, make a habit of looking at your tires (exciting right?) to keep an eye on anything unusual like cuts or abrasions, a tire store can help you determine if there is any safety issue.
Engine oil - Checking and changing oil is critical to keep today’s engines running properly and efficiently. Follow manufacturer guidelines for changing the lubricant – generally, every 3,000 miles or three to six months in harsch climates. There are lots of options out there. Talk to your Jack Furrier Service advisor for options and the benefits of different oil choices. And don't forget about all the other "oil changes" that your car needs - everything from transmissions, power-steering, brakes, and axles require specific fluids to keep them healthy and operating properly - they need to be changed as well.
How to Check your oil Check the oil level with the engine off and the car parked on a level surface. Open the hood, remove the dipstick, wipe it clean with a cloth or paper towel, then return it to the oil reservoir. Take it out again and see whether the level is within the acceptable range marked on the dipstick. If you add oil, becareful not to over-fill, as this can cause damage the engine.
Transmission fluid - Checking the automatic transmission fluid is another vital item on the car maintenance checklist. Look for a reservoir marked ATF (automatic transmission fluid) and follow the same steps as monitoring the oil level – only this time, with the engine running. Follow manufacturer’s recommendations for change intervals, about every 30,000 miles.
Engine coolant - Replace coolant based on your vehicle manufacturer's recommendation. In extreme climates engine coolant or antifreeze can be replaced every 30,000 miles – or every two to three years. Newer formulas, however, may last up to 50,000 miles. To check coolant level, turn the car off and locate the coolant reservoir (usually a translucent plastic tank under your hood) and eyeball the level of the coolant against the full and low indicators. Never Open or remove a cap from a Cooling System when the engine is hot.
Power steering fluid - Power steering fluid should be changed every three years or 50,000 miles. If you have a power steering fluid reservoir, check the level visually; otherwise, follow the dipstick method. Low power steering fluid may indicate a leak, so have your mechanic take a look.
Brakes and brake fluid - Check to ensure that brake fluid levels are within tolerance. How often you need to replace brake pads or other components depends on how you drive and typical driving conditions. Warning signs of a brake problem include noise, vibration or “grabbing” when you apply the brakes. Working on your brakes is a job probably best left to the professionals.
Engine Air filter - Basic car maintenance suggests changing your air filter each year or every 12,000-15,000 miles. A clean air filter can help your engine “breathe” better and improve gas mileage and reduce harmful emissions. Cabin Air Filters are fitted on many vehicles and often overlooked maintenance. These filters get dirty - especially in dusty climates or for drivers with pets.
Fuel filter - Replace it according to manufacturer's scheduled maintenance to help prevent debris from clogging your car’s fuel line.
Windshield wipers and wiper fluid - Windshield wiper care is one of the most neglected basic car care tips. Replace the blades every six to 12 months or whenever the rubber becomes worn. Check the wiper fluid reservoir every week or so and keep it full.
Headlights and brake lights - With your car turned on and parked, have someone walk around to see that your lights are working – headlights, brake and tail lights, turn signals, etc. Replacing bulbs in today’s vehicles can be a challenge. Have a mechanic do the job, particularly replacing and aiming headlights. A pro also knows if the problem is a blown fuse, not a burned out bulb.
Need Service?
Receive A Quote Request An Appointment
Complete List Of Repair Services
Click here>>