What should be paid attention to in car maintenance?
4 Answers
Car maintenance requires attention to the following points: Proper labeling: The components of a car vary in size and type, ranging from small screws to large circuit boards. Each part plays a unique role in the vehicle. Missing or incorrect installation of any component can lead to unpredictable hazards. Therefore, during the maintenance process, removed parts should be properly stored and labeled, especially those with specific installation directions that are easily confused. Correct use of tools: How tools are used in vehicle maintenance is also crucial. The car maintenance industry typically has specialized tools that play a key role in the repair process. Proper usage affects the quality of maintenance; avoid using tools to forcefully hit or pull, as this can damage the vehicle. Component cleaning: Cleaning parts is also an essential part of car maintenance, with specific precautions to follow. Car parts accumulate a significant amount of dirt, dust, and grease during operation and require thorough cleaning. Moreover, there are strict regulations regarding cleaning temperatures and the solutions used.
When it comes to car maintenance, my habit is to perform regular minor upkeep to avoid major issues. As a car owner, I check the tire pressure during weekly car washes—low pressure leads to faster wear and higher fuel consumption. I replace the air filter every six months to prevent dust from entering the engine, which can cause power loss. If I hear any unusual noises, I address them immediately—for instance, if the brakes feel soft, I get them checked right away, as it might indicate a leaking brake line. Choosing a reliable repair shop is crucial; I look at reviews and opt for established shops rather than going for cheap, unknown garages. DIY tasks can save money, like replacing wiper blades or patching a tire, but I avoid tinkering with electrical systems to prevent short circuits and accidents. Regular cleaning of the undercarriage helps prevent rust, ensuring the car stays in good condition longer, reduces hassle, and saves on major repair costs.
30 years of auto repair experience taught me: Diagnose problems carefully to identify the root cause first, don't waste money by replacing parts blindly. For example, engine shaking might just be due to worn spark plugs - replacing them solves it without major repairs. Ensure tools are clean and operations follow standards, like checking dipstick position accurately after oil changes, as overfilling can cause leaks. Choose OEM-certified or equivalent replacement parts; cheap ones save short-term costs but often cause long-term issues. Safety testing is mandatory - post-repair road tests are essential for critical components like brake discs to confirm responsiveness. Regularly backing up service records helps future repairs and prevents duplicate charges.
Safety comes first when repairing a car. Park on level ground, engage the handbrake firmly, and use wheel chocks or specialized wedges to prevent rolling. Always position the jack on a solid part of the vehicle frame—never on weak points that could cause tipping. Before inspections, turn off the engine, remove the key, and wear protective gloves to avoid oil burns or scalds. When checking electrical systems, avoid bare-handed contact; use a test pen to prevent shocks. After servicing the brake system, test at low speed to confirm immediate response. Maintain ventilation—open garage windows to avoid exhaust fumes. Never overlook details like keeping a fire extinguisher handy, as minor oversights can lead to major accidents.
