Another year has passed too quickly and a new one is just around the corner. You're probably thinking about the New Year's Resolutions you need to make to improve your life. But you can do the same thing for your vehicle. Here are a few suggestions from Glockner of Ashland, KY.
1. Check the tires.
Your tires are something that you tend to ignore until they give you problems. But you can prevent any issues by doing some basic maintenance on them.
· If you have a Tire Pressure Maintenance System, it can tell you when your tires need air.
· If not, every time you stop for gas, you can check the pressure with a tire gauge that you buy from an auto parts store. You can also use the tire gauge that is built into the air pump at the gas station.
You can find the recommended tire pressure on the driver's side door jamb or in the owner's manual. If the tire pressure is low, fill it to the correct pressure.
While you're at it, check to be sure that your treads are deep enough to provide traction. Insert a standard US penny with the top of the head going in first. If you can see all of Lincoln's face, your treads are too shallow and you should replace your tires.
2. Make an emergency kit.
If your vehicle breaks down, you'll need to go for help or wait for help to arrive. In either case, an emergency kit can keep you comfortable and safe. You can make one by putting the following items in a backpack that you can take with you if you need to leave your vehicle.
·
Seasonal
gear. For the cold months, including mittens, hats, blankets, and any extra
warm clothing. Add an ice scraper and brush to remove ice and snow from the
windshield and windows. You'll also need a bag of sand or kitty litter to
increase traction on the snow and tire chains to drive on icy roads.
For the warm months, have sunblock, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to guard
against the sun. You can also include a swimsuit, towels, and slippers for
impromptu swimming.
· Snacks and water to satisfy you while you're waiting.
· Jumper cables to jump-start a dead battery.
· Emergency warning devices such as road flares and warning triangles.
· Flashlight and extra batteries to help you see in the dark without using your smartphone.
· Extra charged battery for your smartphone, so it doesn't run out of power.
3. Monitor the fluids.
You have several fluids that are vital to the functioning of the car. Before you check any of them, make sure your engine has been shut down and allowed to cool. You then avoid burning yourself.
· The most important of these is the oil, which you can check periodically. Check your owner's manual if you don't know where the oil dipstick is located. Pull out the dipstick from its container and wipe off the tip. Then re-insert it and pull it out again. If the oil level is below the minimum level, then you'll need to add more oil.
· Other important fluids include coolant or anti-freeze, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, and windscreen washer fluid. Your owner's manual can tell you where to find their reservoirs. If the liquid inside is below the minimum level, simply add more.
4. Bring your vehicle in for regular maintenance.
Regular maintenance is one of the keys to making your vehicle lasts as long as you want to drive it. If you sign up with Glockner of Ashland, we can send you reminders of when your next maintenance is due. You'll also find a complete schedule in your owner's manual.
Our factory-certified automotive techs specialize in your brands, so they know what to do to keep your car running like new. When necessary, they use only components approved by the manufacturer. You're welcome to wait for your vehicle and use our free WiFi to keep up with work or social media. But if you need to get back to work or home right away, take advantage of our complimentary shuttle service.