Five tips to keep your car running well
We’re mechanics, we’re here to fix your vehicle when things go wrong. But as a car owner, it’s important to understand the little things you could be doing to keep your vehicle running smoothly
Pop the hood every once in a while
For a lot of cars, the only time their bonnet is lifted is when it comes into the workshop. But it can be extremely beneficial to have a look for yourself every now and then, familiarise yourself with the layout, and learn how to check things like fluid levels. Checking this stuff out for yourself can alert you to when some repairs might be in order, before it’s too late
Pay attention to what the car is telling you
It can be very easy to just get used to all the noises your car makes, especially if they don’t seem to be impacting how it drives. But that squeal is the car telling you the brakes might need looking at, that *clunk* noise when you turn right is your sway bar letting you know it’s worn. If you think your hear something out of the ordinary, it might just be time to get the car looked at
Check your lights
Driving around Queensland, I see brake lights out pretty much daily. It’s something that is super easy to miss because you’re never going to be driving behind your own car. That’s why it’s really important to regularly check your own lights. Switch them on and take a walk around your car, for the brake and reverse lights get a friend or family member to jump in the driver’s seat. Changing a bulb is often one of the easiest pieces of car maintenance you can do yourself, and while the lights don’t affect how the car runs, they’re there for a reason. Making sure they’re all working makes everyone safer
Keep an eye on your tyres
You can actually tell a lot by looking at a car’s tyres. More than just seeing if they’re worn or not and need replacing, how they’re worn can be an indicator of other problems. For example, if the tyre is only wearing on one side, this will often be the result of poor wheel alignment, or a problem with a suspension or steering component. Or flat spots (small patches of horizontal wear) could be telling you that your driving style is a bit too aggressive for the car’s liking! Much like your lights, tyre wear is very easy to miss, but also incredibly simple to check yourself
Get your car serviced regularly
The easiest and most cost effective way to maintain your vehicle is regular servicing. That way the engine stays properly lubricated and any potential issues can be identified by a qualified mechanic before they become an even more expensive repair. The general rule of thumb for service intervals is every 6 months or 10000kms. If you are close to, or maybe even past that point, give Murrumba Auto Care a call on (07) 3285 4440 or head to our contact page to book your car in with us today
