How To Check If Your Car Is Safe
Do you check your vehicle over when it’s not in an automotive shop? Not many people will take the time to do it. However, with just fifteen minutes, anyone can perform a quick safety and maintenance check of their vehicle. Regular safety and maintenance checks will help you keep your vehicle in good condition and keep you safe when traveling. Here are a few tips that you can use to help you identify potential problems before they arise.
Get Familiar With Your Warning Lights
Your vehicle performs a system check when started to ensure everything is running smoothly. If a potential problem is found during the vehicle system check, it will alert you by displaying the coordinating symbol of the troubled system on the dashboard display. These symbols are typically found near the odometer for easy viewing. If you notice any symbols illuminated that you are unfamiliar with, refer to your owner’s manual to identify what systems need attention.
Checking Tyres For Wear
One of the symbols you might see illuminated on the dashboard display could be a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light. This light indicates that the pressure in the vehicle’s tyres is not inflated to the proper specifications. A garage supplier will have all the necessary equipment to ensure that your tires are at the correct pressure. The recommended inflation pressure can be found printed on the side of the tyre and can be inflated to the proper pressure using any air hose found at a local gas station or service station.
You should also perform a physical check of your tyres by inspecting the tread condition of each one. If you have any areas of smooth tread, noticeable bulges, or cracking, you should change your tyres right away. Have your tread depth measured to see if it’s time for replacement tyres. Many tyre centers will perform this check for free. If you notice uneven tread wear, it means that your suspension and alignment may be off track and will need to be inspected. It is important to repair any issue quickly to ensure your safety.
Checking Your Fluid Level
Checking the fluids in your vehicle doesn’t take much time at all. The most important thing is to make sure the engine is cool before you start inspecting things under the hood. Locate the fluid containers in your engine compartment and verify that the levels are correct. Replenish any fluids that may be low with fluids approved by the manufacturer. You can find a list of compatible fluids that can be used in your vehicle in your owner’s manual. If you find that any of the fluids have dropped below their minimum fill level, have your vehicle evaluated at a repair center for any damage that may have occurred due to the low fluid levels. Performing these checks will ensure that your vehicle has everything it needs to keep you safe on the road.
Checking Drive Belts
Before you’re finished with your routine maintenance check, look at the vehicle’s drive belts. The drive belts power some of the main systems in your vehicle, like the steering system and charging system. All of the drive belts should be secure and free of frayed areas, cracks, and slick or glazed surfaces. This check can be conducted pretty quickly and only requires the inspection of one to three belts. You can service the drive belts with an aerosol belt cleaner, as this will keep them from wearing out fast.