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How to extend the life of your car

There are many car parts that are vital to how to extend the life of your car. These car parts must be tended to on a regular basis as the most important method of how to extend the life of your car. We will go through some of the details of how to extend the life of your car in this article, so that your car can be with you longer, and so that you car will be safer fore yourself and others.

· How to check the engine oil:

Checking the engine oil is an important part of how to extend the life of your car.

a) Make sure you park your car on a level surface.

b) Do not keep the engine running.

c) Wait a little while to allow the engine oil to pour down into the oil pan.
d) Next you must pull the engine oil dipstick. If for some reason you cannot find the engine oil dipstick, check your owner's manual. However, the oil engine dipstick usually it has a bright lid that reads: “engine oil”.

e) Then wipe off the dipstick with a clean rag or tissue and insert it back all the way down into place.

f) When you pull the dipstick out again it will indicate the oil level. Normally it should be at the “FULL” mark. If you see that the oil level is a bit lower, it's better to top it off.

g) You must also be sure to check the condition of the oil.
If the oil on the dipstick appears way too black, you should not hesitate to change it immediately.
If the oil slightly brown, the oil is ok.
If it's dark-brown, but still transparent, it's admissible but it's better to change it soon.
If the oil appears white (such as a coffee with milk color) it means that the engine coolant has mixed with the engine oil due to some internal engine problem, perhaps a blown head gasket. You really should have your car inspected, and without delay.

· How to top off the engine oil:

Making sure that this is done properly is another great method of how to extend the life of your car.

a) The best suggestion is that you add the same type and brand of engine oil every time—the brand that is already inside the engine.

b) You should add a small amount of oil. Wait for a minute to let the oil to pour down.

c) Check the oil level again and if it is still low, you can add some more. However, be absolutely certain that you do not overfill it.

· How to check automatic transmission fluid:

a) Again, place your car on a level surface.

b) Be sure that the engine is running and that the transmission is in parking position.

c) Let the engine idle (check the owners' manual for details—some cars may have a different procedure).

d) Pull out the transmission dipstick.

e) Wipe off your dipstick with a lint free clean rag or tissue.

f) Put the dipstick all the way back in its place.

g) Then remove the dipstick again and check the level of the transmission fluid.

h) If your engine is cold, the level shown should be within “COLD” marks. If the engine is hot, however. The level should be at the upper end of the “HOT” marks. But if it is just a little bit lower do not concern yourself about it. Otherwise, top it up.

i) You should check the fluid condition also. Black fluid that has a burnt smell means that your transmission is not going to last. The fluid should be clean and transparent. New transmission fluid comes out red and over the time it turns into a brownish color. When the fluid is brown, check your owner's manual to see if it recommends that you change it right away, sometimes the manual will make another suggestion.

· How to top up the transmission fluid:

The transmission, like the engine is a vital car part. If you want to know how to extend the life of your car—make sure you take care of it right.

a) It's very important to use only the type of transmission fluid specified for your car in the owner’s manual.
For example:
Various Chrysler transmissions require a specific type of fluid. Regular fluid such as Dexron II can actually destroy the automobile’s transmission.
Do not overfill the transmission fluid.

2) Then wait to let the fluid to flow down.

3) Start the engine and check the level again.

· How to check the engine coolant level:

a) Low engine coolant levels cause the engine to overheat. And overheating can be the cause of significant damage to the engine.

b) When you check, the cars’ coolant level should be between the “LOW” and “FULL” marks. If it is close to the lower mark, top it up, and if there is no coolant in the overflow tank or you have to top it up quite often. In this case, make sure your car is inspected—there may be a leak.
And REMEMBER: Do not ever open the radiator or coolant overflow tank while the engine is still hot!
c) A few minutes after the engine is turned off, simply add the engine coolant to the overflow tank to “FULL” mark.

Checking the engine coolant is a vital aspect of how to extend the life of your car—do not forget to do it!

· Tires:

a) You should check the tire pressure at least once every month. If you do not have tire pressure gauge—get one! Consult your owner’s manual, you can find the recommended tire pressure there or on the tire pressure placard. The maximum pressure is not the proper pressure!

b) Rotate your tires at every second oil change - it will insure all tires will wear equally.

c) If you are feeling a vibration at cruising speed have your tires balanced right away. There is a safe limit of the tread wear, but if the tire is worn below this safety limit, your car really is unsafe to drive.

d) Take your car somewhere to get a mechanical inspection. Uneven tire wear is the best indication of an alignment problem.

1) Improper alignment will cause increased tire and suspension components, as well as wear and poor handling.

2) In a worst-case scenario improper alignment may throw your car into a skid, especially on a wet road.

3) Thus, if a car pulls aside, wanders or feels unstable on the road, have the alignment checked.

Properly done alignment is a very important part of how to extend the life of your car.

· When you have a broken CV joint boot:

a) Taking care of small concerns in time may save you a lot more money.

c) As soon as you feel there is something wrong with your car, such as any kind of irregular noises, vibrations, leaks etc. and especially if any warning light comes on while driving (such as the “CHECK ENGINE” light—have your car inspected as soon as possible because your automobile might be unsafe to drive.

It is much better to check small problems when practicing how to extend the life of your car. And try to repair the problems before they might cause more serious damage—which is often the case.

· Regular mechanical inspection

a) Have your car inspected regularly by an automotive mechanical professional at least once a year. At least once a year, one of the best tips we can give you on how to extend the life of your car is to have the car completely inspected.

b) “Completely inspected” means that your car needs not just a visual inspection by some fast lube place once a year, but carefully looked over by a mechanic who can lift your car and check major components such as brakes, suspension, etc.