Swahili Mom: Car Maintanance You Shouldn't Ignore

As a woman routine car maintenance is just something on the top of the to do list. Knowing aspect basic maintenance is a key to keep your car running smooth. A friend of mine frantic called me Sunday early morning to ask what to do because her car broke down. Well, I am not a mechanic or whatsoever but I am that kind of a person that I always have the "maybe it is this and that" kind of a person. We talked for few minutes but I was not able to help her to start her car over the phone. I was a little bit skeptical of what she was telling because she bought that car brand new less than three years ago. I was jokingly that she was sold a lemon but in the evening after all said and done it wasn't a laughable news that I wanted to hear.

When she called me letter that night I was shocked by the amount of money that will cost her to repair her car. I am telling you skimping today routine care maintenance can cost you so much tomorrow. I didn't know she never changed oil since she got that car and only took her car for schedule maintenance just twice in three years. Her reason behind for not doing all that was "the car was working just fine..."

Regular car maintenance is very important and is the best way to keep your car on the road. Regular car maintenance is a good way to expose potential issues before they become full blown disasters. Also routine maintenance helps to give you good mileage on fuel. In this economy where the price of gas is more than $3.00 I think apart form any other advantages that should be just one reason to motivate those who don't follow up with it.

Maintenance items that you should not ignore are:-

1. Engine oil

This is like the blood of your car engine. Changing frequently accordingly to recommended car owner's manual and using the right oil for your car engine is the key to keep the engine out of trouble.

2. Battery

The battery provide power to the electronic system. Have the battery cables, clamps and connections checked at every oil change.

3. Tire pressure

Tire looses pressure each month. You should check pressure on all five tires at least once a month and tire rotation can be done with oil change interval.

4. Engine air filter

Air filter prevents dust and dirt from entering the engine. A dirty or clogged air filter restricts airflow. Air filter should be checked with every oil change or follow the owner's manual.

5. Windshield washer fluid

Check your washer fluid reservoir monthly or more often f you use the wipers frequently.

Last try to be knowledgeable a little bit about your car and keep maintenance records sometimes there are some mechanics who can rip you off just because they think you don't know anything about your car.