Owning a car comes with responsibility as you have to keep it in good working condition. Regular servicing and repairs can prolong its life and save it from corrosion. You should always check engine tire pressure, brakes, engine oil, and lubricants. Automobile experts recommend a thorough inspection once or twice a year. An annual servicing is also necessary if you want your car to pass MOT.
Car servicing includes certain basic steps that you must perform to keep your vehicle running. You can do it at home or search car services near me to hire professionals.
Tools for a DIY Car Servicing
You need the right tools in case you want to perform a basic car servicing. Here are some necessary tools that might come in handy.
Tire pressure gauge Carjack Axle stands Screwdrivers Wrench Oil filter remover Oil drain tray Funnel Spark plug removal socket Socket set Nitrile gloves
Car Servicing Parts and Lubricants
The main purpose of car servicing includes inspection of its oils and lubricants. You have to replace certain fluids and damaged parts as well. Here are some parts and lubricants that you may have to change to enjoy a smoother ride.
Windscreen washer fluid Anti-freeze Air filter Oil filter Oil Spark plugs
Now let’s talk about basic servicing steps that you have to perform.
Oil Change
Frequent oil changing is an essential part of car servicing. Old oil could damage your car engine and if such a thing happens, you may have to open for cleaning. We advise you to take your car for a quick drive so that engine oil gets a little warm. This can help you drain it quickly but make sure that the engine is cold before you start the draining process.
Spark Plugs
Changing spark plugs depends on your car’s make and model. Every vehicle has a different recommended tie period for it. You can check your owner’s manual to confirm the time period. However, we recommend you change it every 30,000 miles.
Air Filter
An air filter keeps your engine clean and restricts dust to enter the engine. But you have to clean or change the air filter if dust has clogged it. Usually, air filters are covered with an air-box to keep them secure. However, you can easily remove them as air-box or either held by clips or screws. Replacing the old air filter with the new one is easy and doesn’t take much time.
Fluid Check
Basic servicing includes inspection and checking fluids in your car. You should inspect fluid levels of engine coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, anti-freeze, windscreen washer, and engine coolant. You can check their levels by lifting their caps and using a torch to look inside.
Top up the fluids to recommended levels if they are low. However, always use a fluid or coolant that is recommended by the owner’s Manuel. Using low-quality fluids may damage your engine and other key components.
Last Words
The above-mentioned steps are considered necessary and are an essential part of service. These are the basic checks that you could perform by yourself at home. However, you must take your car to the nearest servicing station for a major inspection once in a year.
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