If everything on TV were true, then keeping a vehicle
running great, looking good, and lasting a long time would be the easiest thing
ever. Advertising will tell us over and over that all we really need to do to
keep that car or truck running forever and looking brand new for years is to
pour some bottles of miracle liquid into the crankcase, sprinkle magic dust on
the paint, or spray some sort of ionized wonder water on the interior.
Unfortunately this is not the case. Follow the accompanying 10 handy tips for
keeping your vehicle in top shape.
Tip 1
Check and change the oil. No single step will help an engine
last more than regular oil and filter changes will. Conversely, nothing will
destroy an engine faster than neglecting oil-level checks or fresh-oil changes.
Tip 2
Flush the cooling system and change coolant once a year. A
50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water will keep the cooling system in good
shape and prevent corrosion and deposits from building up inside the cooling
system.
Tip 3
Change out transmission and differential oils. While not
requiring frequent service, these fluids must be changed according to service
intervals. Always use transmission fluid or gear oil of the recommended type
and viscosity.
Tip 4
Keep it clean. While washing the outside of the vehicle is
obvious, most everything the vehicle ran over can also get stuck to the
underside. Hosing off winter salt and road grime is a good idea.
Tip 5
Everything with moving parts needs grease to survive. This
ball joint went into early retirement due to poor lubrication.
Tip 6
Nothing keeps paint looking good and protected like a coat
of quality wax. Apply wax at least every six months.
Tip 7
Driveline components such as u-joints also require regular
lubrication. The driveline may have to be removed to access the zerk grease
fitting.
Tip 8
Protect the interior plastic by parking the vehicle in the
shade, using a window deflector screen, and applying a UV protectant to prevent
the plastic and vinyl from drying out.
Tip 9
Inspect, clean, and repack wheel bearings with wheel bearing
grease according to service intervals. Wheel bearings and grease are
inexpensive compared to spindle and hub replacement, or liberated wheels
rolling down the road ahead of you.
Tip 10
Brake fluid is hygroscopic. This means it is adept at
attracting moisture. Moisture causes components to corrode and fail. Replace
fluid and bleed system once a year. Brake fluid is cheap. Calipers, hoses, and
sensors are expensive.
For Quality cars at great prices, stop by Town & Country
Ford today!