For All Vehicle Owners
A vehicle is a convenient and practical way to get around, especially for us in the Caribbean where we have limited public transportation options.
However, owning a vehicle comes with certain responsibilities, including maintaining and repairing the vehicle, as well as paying for expenses such as fuel, insurance, and much more.
In today’s blog we’ll go through some maintenance tips to make your life a tiny bit easier.
Why is regular maintenance important?
Regular maintenance is important for your vehicle because it can help to ensure that it is running at its best and can extend its lifespan. Proper maintenance can help to prevent problems from occurring and can help to catch issues early, before they become more serious and costly to repair.
Living on an island may subject a vehicle to more wear and tear due to the rough roads and harsh climate. For example, if the roads on the island are poorly maintained or if the climate is particularly hot or humid, this can cause more wear and tear on the vehicle’s components, which can potentially shorten its lifespan.
Follow the tips below to possibly avoid a stranded situation.
1. Maintenance schedule
Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. Consult your owner’s manual to determine the recommended maintenance schedule of your vehicle. This schedule will typically include tasks such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections. By following the recommended schedule, you can help ensure that your vehicle is running at its best and extend its lifespan.
2. Properly inflated tires
One of the biggest mistakes people make when inflating their vehicle’s tires is using the wrong tire pressure. If the tire pressure is too high it reduces the tire’s grip on the road, which can increase the risk of a crash. Low tire pressure can cause the tire to heat up more as you drive, which can increase the risk of a tire blowout.
To avoid that check the tire pressure regularly using a tire pressure gauge and inflate the tires to the recommended pressure. Just google your vehicle’s model and year to see the recommended tire pressure.
3. Engine oil and oil filter
Check and replace your engine oil and oil filter regularly. Engine oil helps to lubricate the moving parts in your engine and keep it running smoothly. Be sure to check the oil level regularly and replace the oil and oil filter. If you notice the oil looks dirty or has a burnt smell, it’s probably time to change it.
4. Replace your air filter regularly
The air filter helps to clean the air that enters the engine, which can improve performance. The air filter is typically located in the engine compartment, either near the front of the vehicle or on the side. If you notice that the filter looks dirty or clogged, it’s probably time to replace it.
5. Spark plugs
Spark plugs help to ignite the fuel in the engine and are essential for proper engine operation. Most spark plugs should be replaced every 48.000 to 160.000 km. If you notice any problems with the way your car is running, such as a misfire or decrease in fuel efficiency, it may be time to change them. If you do a lot of short trips or drive in stop-and-go traffic, the spark plugs may need to be replaced more frequently.
6. Keep your vehicle clean
A clean vehicle not only looks better, but it can also help to extend the life of the vehicle’s exterior and interior components. Regularly wash the exterior and vacuum the interior to remove dirt, dust and debris.
7. Vehicle's fluid levels
Check the levels of your vehicle’s fluid regularly, including engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and coolant. If the levels are low, refill them as needed.
By following these maintenance tips, you can help ensure that your vehicle is running at its best and extend its lifespan. If you are unsure about how to perform any of these tasks, it is best to have them done by a qualified mechanic or service center.
We got you!
If your company has more than 2 cars keeping track of all the maintenances and appointments for your vehicles can be overwhelming. Contact us for the right solution, having everything in one place can help you save a lot of time and money.
