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Cars provide comfort, protection and convenience while traveling. Even if it's a new or used car, though, the car parts can get damaged or worn over time. That's why one thing that must be done regularly for your vehicle's optimum performance is to get the parts checked.
Performing regular check ups on your car not only will ensure your safety but will also save you a lot of money in the long-term.
Here are ten important car parts that you should be checking:
1. Car Brakes - Brake Pads and Discs
The most crucial part of a car are the brakes. You won't be able to slow down your car or do a complete stop without them.
It can be a complicated system but the brake pads and discs are the most common parts to check.
The large silver parts on the inside of the wheel are the brake discs. Since the brakes work through fiction, the discs will eventually start to wear down. So, in order to maintain the brake performance, check brake discs for any signs of pitting or corrosion.
For the brake pads, you need to check on the thickness of the pad itself. The heat caused by friction when you hit on your brakes will cause the pads to wear down. If that happens, it's time to get it changed.
2. Tires
Car owners often ignore getting the tires checked, but this is one of the most important parts that should be inspected. You can get into an accident if the tires are in bad shape.
Don't wait for 4-6 years to see if a tire change is needed. You can check the tread of your tire with a simple penny test. Buy a simple tire pressure gauge to check if the pressure is okay.
You can refer to your car manufacturer for the right pressure and decide by the treads if the tires need to be replaced.
3. Air Filter
A clogged air filter can cause fuel consumption to rise. It can also affect the car's performance by decreasing the horsepower.
If the air filter is clogged, it can also take away the engine’s ability to run smoothly. Be sure to get it checked when the service appointment is due. The check up or replacement shouldn't cost that much.
4. Oil
Your car won't function well without enough oil. Every engine needs oil to prevent corrosion from the inside, and to stop the metal parts from grinding together. Being well lubricated is essential for your engine since it has so many different moving parts, and they are required to move or to perform a task at a specific moment.
Since different engines require a different type of engine oil, make sure to check your owner’s manual to find out the right lubricant for your car.
Pay close attention to the reservoir under the bonnet or the dial inside your car. You can also use a dipstick to see how much oil you have inside the engine.
5. Power Steering Fluid
Power steering fluid is responsible for the smooth and balanced movement of the power steering. Insufficient fluid can cause damage to the steering components and steering wheel.
Be sure to include this on your car maintenance schedule and ask your provider to check it at the time of service.
6. Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid lubricates and cools the transmission. The type of transmission fluid you need depends on the make and model of your vehicle, and whether you drive a car with an automatic or manual transmission.
See to it that there are no leaks and the transmission fluid is always at the right level to keep the gear shift smooth and performing flawlessly.
7. Shock Absorbers
Every time your car goes around over a bump or a bend, shock absorbers are in use. Damaged or worn shocks decrease the performance of your braking system, which could lead to serious issues when driving.
There are a few steps to inspect the condition or shock absorbers. First, see if it is pulling to one side when you drive around a bend. This could mean that the shocks on the affected side could be worn. Second, if the bonnet takes a noticeable dip when braking, it could be due to damaged shocks. Lastly, any signs of uneven wear could be caused by collapsed shocks.
8. Windshield Wiper
Most people are not concerned about their window wipers but it is very important to keep them maintained. A faulty or rough window wiper can lead to car accidents and causes visibility issues in rain or snowfall.
To check if your wipers work well, run your finger along the rubber strip for any signs of cracks or check your windscreen for smearing. If there are signs of either, then it's time to change them.
Spray wiper fluid or water and turn on the wiper to see if it makes a complete arc on the windshield, if not, it's due for a change.
9. Car Bulbs
Car bulbs have improved and are now brighter and more reliable than before. They still wear out like any other light bulbs, though. Aside from the warning messages displayed, there are also some ways to check them.
To check the front, rear and brake lights simply park close to a flat, reflective surface then switch on your lights and apply the brakes. You'll know you're all good if you can see the reflection of each bulb.
To inspect the indicators, hazards and reversing lights, ask for assistance so that someone can check if the lights are on when you put the car into reverse or flick the switch.
10. Car Battery
Most of the car batteries last up to 5 years and they start giving problems after. You won't be able to start your car if the battery goes dead.
It may help extend its life if you regularly clean the terminals with a battery cleaning brush. You can also buy a jump starter and keep it in the back of the trunk, just in case.