Your European automobile was designed to be driven fast and on difficult roads with superior efficiency and handling, and in order to do that, it’s got to be running in tiptop shape. Following these suggestions can help you to ensure that your car is always ready for whatever adventure you’re heading on next. We can keep your car ready for adventure, as well, here at East Coast EuroWerks.
Check the Tires Regularly
Tires are where the car comes into direct contact with the road and they can affect a lot more about how your car functions and handles than you’d expect. Check the tread monthly, and if you’re noticing uneven wear, then it’s time for a wheel balance and alignment. Double-check air pressure every couple of weeks, and make a schedule for getting your tires rotated every 6,000 miles.
Keep up with a Filter Schedule
Your car has several different filters, and some are automatically changed during certain services, like the oil filter getting changed during an oil change. Air filters typically need to be replaced every year and don’t forget about the cabin air filter, too. Fuel filters collect a lot of gunk, too, and need to be swapped out every 30,000 miles or sooner if it clogs and you notice performance issues.
Do an Annual Check of Hoses and Belts
Belts and hoses take on a lot more wear and tear than you might expect. Also, the extremes of hot and cold weather in some areas can accelerate that wear. Belts are a big concern because when they break, they have a lot of kinetic energy stored, which means they can do some damage as they swing around loose. Hoses need to keep liquids and air contained, so holes are never good.
Look at the Battery Regularly
You don’t have to be a car expert to spot something wrong with your battery. Try to take a peek at it once a month or so. You’re looking for any signs of trouble, like the sides swelling, cracks in the outer case, or corrosion around the battery terminals. These are all signs that your battery isn’t operating as well as it should be, especially if your battery is older than three years old.
Be Scrupulous About Oil Changes
Oil changes are one of the easiest and most crucial ways to take the best care possible of your European automobile. Pay attention to what the owner’s manual recommends, especially in terms of miles between oil changes, and stick to that schedule. Generally, the oil should be changed every 3,000 miles unless you use synthetic, which can be changed at 5,000 or 7,500 miles.
What helps the most is to have a mechanic you trust babying your car. Contact East Coast EuroWerks in Wilmington, NC, and we can help you to take great care of your European automobile.
