eremedies

Caring For Your Car

If you're car-clueless, don't worry anymore. Here are some simple things you should know before you get behind the driver's seat.

* Know your car. Memorize your license plate number and what it looks like. If you don't have a security system, at least get a sticker that says you do. It can be the first line of defense. And ALWAYS lock the doors.

* Know your car's specs. How many gallons of gas does it hold? What is the recommended tire pressure? What kind of oil does it take? How much mileage (miles per gallon) should it give you? Knowing what these numbers should be will alert you in case something isn't right.

* Check your car's manual to find out where the important parts are. Not just the mirrors and stereo system. Some of the important things you should know: the location of the dipstick (to check oil), the battery and its terminals (don't touch!), the fuel tank (where you put the fuel in!), the coolant tank (don't touch!), windshield wiper fluid. Look at the manual and study the parts. This is vital.

* Change the oil regularly. You can usually get away with every 10,000 miles (ABSOLUTE MINIMUM), but 5,000 is recommended. Try to do this. And change the oil when it gets dark and dirty (if it's hasn't been 10,000 miles). It's inexpensive at most places, so don't do it yourself unless you're SURE you know how.

* Run the A/C occasionally. Whatever you rarely use on your vehicle, run it even for a little bit once in a while so it doesn't cool off and stop working! That also goes for windshield wipers and defrosters.

* When you get gas, check the oil level, coolant level, and washer fluid. Visually inspect your tires to make sure they're not flat. Fill up if they are low, and see if they continue to leak. If they do, you'll need to get them patched or replaced. Once a month, check the other fluids (automatic transmission, brake fluid, power steering fluid).

* Keep some supplies in your car: a flashlight, extra batteries, a tire pressure gauge, flares, a first aid kit, ice scraper, a rag, jumper cables, some water (preferably a gallon). Don't forget to make sure you have a spare tire and jack. replace your spare tire when needed.

* Know the warning lights on your car. A low-fuel sign can mean you have up to 30 more miles worth of gas. But if the oil light comes on, pull over as fast as you can or you'll destroy the engine! The check engine light means your car's computer has a problem and should be checked as soon as possible.

* Check your maintenance schedule and follow it! Check here for more info.