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03/Aug/2009

Keep Old Betsy Running

Until Her Paint Falls Off

By Daryl Hardwick

Daryl’s Automotive

 

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! This is the real key to keeping your old car running until the paint falls off.  In fact, it's pretty simple.  Here is your secret formula:


1. Check your "vital signs" every time you gas up. 
When you fill the gas tank, take a moment to pop the hood and check the levels of oil, coolant, brake fluid and power steering fluid. You'll need a paper towel for the oil, but most of the others can be checked at a glance in most vehicles.

You can also check the windshield washer fluid. On most vehicles we recommend changing the motor oil every 3,000 miles or every three months unless you use a synthetic oil such as Mobil 1.  

Also the transmission oil, engine coolant and the differential and brake fluids should be changed every two to three years or about every 25,000 to 30,000 miles. Keeping all of the vehicle fluids fresh and clean will go a long way towards helping the old girl run 200,000 or even 300,000 miles before it's time to put her out to pasture.

2. Check tires for proper inflation every two weeks. 
Under-inflated tires are a leading cause of blow-outs and accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Institute has found that one in four cars (27%) on the highway have at least one under-inflated tire (low by at least 8 psi).

Get a tire gauge--they are inexpensive--and use it when you gas up or at least once every two weeks. The proper inflation level for your tires is in the owner's manual and on the driver's side door jamb.   It is not on the side of the tire (that's the maximum allowable pressure). If you fear getting your hands dirty, keep a container of wet towelettes under the seat or in the glove compartment.

3. Check tire tread every two months and balance, rotate and align tires as recommended.
These steps will help you get the longest, safest service out of your tires. Tires need replacing when the wear bars begin to show or when you can see the top of Abraham Lincoln's head when you insert a penny head first into the tread (about 2/32" or less).  

We recommend rotating tires every other oil change as a simple way of keeping track. Balance and align your tires as needed or about at the halfway point of your tire wear.

4. Check hoses and belts every month.
Belts should be adequately tight. Hoses should be firm and not spongy. If you are unsure how to check, ask your mechanic to demonstrate the techniques to you.

Because modern belts and hoses don't show visible wear much, it is also a good idea to keep a record of when new belts and hoses are installed.   You should replace them at intervals recommended by the vehicle's manufacturer or the belt/hose manufacturer. The general service period is three to four years. ( Caution: Don't test a hot hose with your bare hand.)

5. Check brakes for wear at least once a year.
Regular brake maintenance means you don't leave stopping safely to chance. Don't wait until you hear grinding or squealing sounds to have your brakes checked. And don’t wait until the brake pedal starts to fade or feel spongy.

6. Check battery connections regularly and keep track of the battery's age.
Also keep those jumper cables in the trunk. Checking that connections are secure and that no corrosion has built up on battery terminals can help prevent those annoying mornings when the car won't start. Batteries are also rated to give a certain period of service. Keep track of when yours is due to be replaced.

7. Keep the exterior clean.
Some experts recommend washing your car weekly. You may not need to do it that frequently, but keeping the exterior free of dirt, road salts, tree sap, bird droppings and the like can keep your vehicle looking like new and enhancing its value for years.

Wax your car about twice a year (or whenever the water quits beading up on the surface). Touch up nicks and scratches with matching paint before they provide an entryway for rust. Scotch guarding the interior upholstery or treating leather and cleaning the interior frequently is also a good idea.

 

The above list is all essential for properly maintaining your vehicle. Most of these tips are right there in the owners’ manual that almost nobody reads.

 

There are many other ways you can upgrade and care for your vehicle. If you’re interested enough to read this article, and you learned something from it, you should seek out as much knowledge as you can. And you can email me with any questions or comments at daryl@darylsautomotive.com.