Car maintenance tips can help you prolong the life of your vehicle. Some of these include making sure that you replace the spark plugs and the timing belt at regular intervals. Other suggestions include ensuring that you store your car in a safe place, and preventing leaks in your tires.
Replace spark plugs every 30,000 or 40,000 miles
Spark plugs are vital for the proper functioning of an engine. They receive the spark from the distributor cap and ignite the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. The electrical arc generates pressure that moves the piston down the cylinder.
Over time, these plugs begin to corrode. This is why car owners must take care of them. In order to protect their investment, they should check the spark plugs regularly. If they are dirty or have worn threads, they need to be replaced.
Typically, car manufacturers recommend replacing spark plugs every 30,000 to 40,000 miles. You can find this information in your owner’s manual. Depending on the type of vehicle you have, you may need to replace spark plug wires as well.
Fortunately, there are new long-life plugs available in the market. These plugs are made of platinum or iridium. Besides improving the performance of your vehicle, these plugs also help to increase your gas mileage.
Avoid warming the engine by letting it idle in the driveway
If you’re looking to save some money on gas, you should avoid warming the engine by letting it idle in the driveway to prolong your car’s life. While it’s not always easy, allowing your vehicle to run for long periods of time can increase its wear and tear, requiring you to spend more money on repairs.
To avoid warming the engine by letting it idle, you may want to start your car right away. The most efficient way to do this is to wait about 10 seconds before moving it. This will give the engine enough time to lubricate itself and prepare for driving.
You should also use caution while idling your vehicle. For instance, don’t let it hit a curb, or bump into any objects on the road. Also, don’t make any sudden turns or runs.
Replace the timing belt at 50,000 miles
If your car is approaching 50,000 miles, it’s time to start thinking about replacing the timing belt. A failed timing belt can cause serious damage to your engine, which can leave you stranded on the side of the road.
The belt connects the camshaft and crankshaft gears. It also ensures that the valves open and close precisely. It is a crucial component to your engine, and the failure of this part can cause thousands of dollars in damage.
When it comes to timing belts, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. Most automakers recommend replacing the belt at 50,000 to 100,000 miles.
Before you replace the timing belt, you should check the tension of the belt. This can be done by pressing the center of the longest exposed run. Ideally, the tension should be between 13 and 25 mm.
Prevent leaks in tire valves
There are many things you can do to avoid leaks in your tire valves. The key is to keep your tires in good condition. This will help your vehicle last longer and keep you safe.
It’s a good idea to get a pressure gauge for your tires. These can be bought at any auto parts store. A pressure gauge will allow you to see the PSI of the tire, which is an indicator of how much air is in it.
If your tire is losing air, this may be the result of a leak. Leaks can occur anywhere along the valve stem. However, most leaks will occur in the metal tip of the valve.
In order to prevent leaks in your tire valves, you should check them frequently. Using a pressure gauge will also help you ensure that your tire is inflated properly.
Store your car properly
It’s important to properly store your car for optimal performance and longevity. This is especially true in the colder climes. The best place to store your prized possession is in a garage, with a good temperature and humidity control. In the winter, consider using a garage heater. Also, check your fluids and change the oil. Keeping your tires inflated is a must to avoid flat spotting.
As you probably guessed, it’s not easy to store your vehicle for long periods of time. Fortunately, there are many alternatives, from the tried and true to the new and improved. With proper car maintenance, you can keep your ride running like new for years to come. Using the right products, however, can ensure that your investment is worth every penny.