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Summertime Car Care
By: Shaan Randow
Because we feel the effects of winter more harshly than summer, we go to extra
lengths to protect ourselves with coats and hats and gloves. Most of us make
sure that our cars are ready for the onslaught of frigid winter weather too. We
make sure we have snow tires, an ice scraper and deicer.
However, in summer months we can shed our heavy and restrictive coats and hats
and take life easy. We also tend to be more lax with our car care too. Remember,
you car needs protection and routine maintenance year round, no matter what the
temperature.
Your engine is effected by extremes of temperature. Don't think that it isn't
hard on the engine when you sit idling in a traffic jam in 90 degree plus
temperature with the air conditioner blasting away inside.
The first reason to keep up a maintenance schedule is to save yourself money in
the long run. If you have a newer car in order to keep the warranty in effect
you need to have it serviced according to your manufacturers recommended
schedule.
If your car is older and out of warranty you need to be more vigilant. It's up
to you to make a service schedule for your car. Make a checklist and keep track
of the following items;
Oil. This should be changed every 3,000 miles. If you car is "using" oil as the
saying goes, check it every other time you fill up. Carry an extra quart of oil
in the trunk. Along with an oil change most "speedy" oil change business check
belts, hoses, fluid levels, tires, etc.
Antifreeze. Have your cars heating and cooling system checked on at least
yearly. You want to make sure you have adequate temperature protection, summer
and winter.
Air cleaner. This should be checked at the same time you have your oil changed.
A clogged air cleaner can really slow down your engines performance.
Brakes. If you notice any squealing of your breaks have them checked as soon as
possible. It's much cheaper to replace worn pads than it is to have to replace
expensive rotors if they become worn.
Tires. The air pressure is usually checked at the same time you have your oil
changed. You should also have the tires rotated on a regular basis, this can
really prolong their life.
Battery. Batteries are sealed units now. Have the battery checked at least once
a year.
Following these tips all year round will help you keep you car in top running
order.
About the Author:
This article courtesy of http://www.bmw-fanclub.net
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