According to National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence statistics, least among the most commonly neglected vehicle maintenance items are the timely changing of the oil and its filter and proper tire inflation. With regard to overall vehicle maintenance, in our modern age of reliance on mobile devices, there is actually an automobile maintenance app available to avoid vehicle neglect.
Maintaining proper tire inflation level, which can be found on the tire wall as well as in the vehicle operator’s manual, is only one facet of wheel alignment. If the hood of the vehicle is lower on one side than on the other, it doesn’t require rocket science to figure out that tire inflation needs attention. The evenness of pressure the tires exert on the road surface is extremely important not only for the safety and comfort of its occupants but for gasoline economy as well.
One of the easiest but most costly maintenance items to postpone involves the air conditioner and heater. Not only do these two items contribute to vehicle occupant comfort but more importantly to engine comfort. Anti-freeze and coolant prevent the engine from overheating which in turn can damage the engine’s cylinder heads, pistons, bearings and valves all of which are made from aluminium. Something as simple as a loose or broken radiator hose clamp can lead to extensive and expensive transmission issues.
Regardless of whether the vehicle is equipped with an automatic or manual gear shifting system, there are parts involved that must function properly for a smooth and safe ride. While a manual gear shift transmission can be easily adjusted via clutch engagement during geographical terrain negotiation, an automatic gear shift is composed of approximately 1,000 parts that must mesh correctly with the engine revolution process.
The peril of brake system neglect goes without saying. The proper amount of brake fluid empowers operation of the brake peddle to safely stop the vehicle. The amount of fluid in the master brake cylinder should be checked at least once every week. Not only will an improperly maintained brake fluid level affect the amount of pressure exerted on the brake peddle, it can lead to complete stoppage failure that could contribute to a significant traffic accident.
In addition to the aforementioned brake issues, neglect of the emergency brake peddle or console lever could spell disaster while the vehicle is parked. Whether engaged by a foot or by a hand, there is a cable connected to the braking system which must activate correctly.
