How to Properly Care for Your Used Car

 

Whether you have a used car or a new car, proper car maintenance can reduce your service bills, keep your car running smoothly, and extend the life of your car and its engine. Here are some of the things you need to look for when caring for your new or Windsor used car:Belts

Belts help to ensure that your engine runs smoothly and that you stay safe while driving. In order to check your belts for durability and quality, simply push on the belt with one finger. The belt should only move by about half of an inch. If it moves more, you may want to have it checked by a professional. Also, make sure that the belt does not have any cracks or worn places.

Hoses

It's important to check the hoses in your used car regularly to ensure that they do not crack, tear, or leak. To check your hose, simply pinch the hose in between your fingers. If the hose feels spongy or sticky, then it's time to replace it.

Tires

The tires should be one of the easiest things for you to check on your car because they require very little expertise in order to see if they are worn. When inspecting your tires, check to see how thick the treads are. If they look worn down or smooth, then you are experiencing balding, which could reduce your traction and increase the risks of driving. If your tires are balding, it's time to replace them.

Windshield Wipers

It's important to remember that on a new or used car, windshield wipers are not just there for convenience; they are also critical safety mechanisms that will help to keep your line of vision clear in rainy weather. Check to make sure that the rubber blade of the windshield wiper is in good condition, that it is not cracked, and that it is attached to the metal or plastic part of the wiper securely from end to end.

Keep in mind that if you used your windshield wipers to help remove ice from your windshield in the winter, then the wiper may become more easily cracked or damaged. Therefore, you may have to replace your wiper more frequently in the winter.

Contact us today for more questions about how to maintain or service your car. We're always helpful to provide tips or schedule an appointment with one of our mechanics.