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