When it comes to owning and driving a car, there are a few things everyone should know. Driving can be dangerous if we don’t look after our vehicles properly, much the same as if we don’t take driving seriously. After we pass our test, the first thing we want to do is get out on the open road and go wherever we want.
This often leads to a lot of driving, just for the sake of it. If we are to use our cars every day, then there are a few things we should know to ensure we are looking after our vehicles properly. If we do that, then there is less chance of the car breaking down. But what are the basics?
Check The Windshield
Something that not many people do, even if they’ve been driving for years, is checking the windshield before going out on a journey. This is such an important step before setting off because there can be some serious damage, not only to the car but to yourself if you ignore some vital signs.
Look for chips and cracks in the windshield as these could potentially damage the structural integrity of the screen, meaning there is a possibility of it completely cracking and coming into the car in some serious situations. You should also check the visibility of your windshield as if there is anything that could possibly block your view, then not only will it impair your driving skill, but it’s also illegal. When talking with a professional, they suggested if there are any chips, cracks, blemishes, or damage to the windshield, you should get it repaired sooner rather than later. When looking at their website it explains that the longer a crack or chip is left alone, the more time it has to develop into something potentially more dangerous. It’s better to get it repaired as soon as you discover it than replacing the entire windshield.
How To Change A Tire
There’s nothing worse than driving along and having a tire burst. It’s a scary and potentially dangerous situation, so if you can manage to get the car to the side of the road safely, then you’ll be in a safe place to try and change it.
All new cars come with spare tires, so learning how to change one will be hugely beneficial if you ever find yourself in this situation. If not, then you might be waiting some time for recovery to come and help you out. You’ll need a jack and some tools. Place the jack on the right point under the car and jack it up. Undo the bolts and put them down somewhere they won’t roll away. Replace the tire and do them back up. It’s best to go and get a new tire as soon as you can as spares are meant for just that, and they won’t last as long as a proper tire.
How To Check Your Oil
This is reasonably simple, but it’s something that should be done (depending on the model of your car) every 5000-10000 miles. Oil is a vital part of the engine and will help lubricate the pistons, crankshaft, and camshaft.
Use the dipstick located in the engine. It should be obvious which one it is, and pull it out to check. If the oil is clear and above the minimum fill line, then you’re good to go. However, if the oil appears black, gritty, or below the minimum fill line then it’s time to get it changed. If you are unsure of how to change the oil on your car, then you can take it to a garage where they will do it for a minimal fee.
Make Sure Your Tire Pressure Is Correct
Driving with tires that are underinflated is dangerous, and it will also affect the running costs of your car. The efficiency of the engine will be reduced when driving on flat tires, meaning you’ll end up spending more money on gas. Take it to a gas station where there should be pressurized air and meters to read the pressure of each tire. Inside your manual will be a note of what the correct PSI should be, and it should also be written somewhere on the inside of the driver’s door. Don’t drive with poor tires, it’s a risk you shouldn’t take.
There are plenty of things you should know about how to check on a car, but these are the basics when it comes to maintenance. If you want to learn more about your vehicle, then there are plenty of in-depth guides available online that will walk you through each stage step by step. Driving your vehicle when it isn’t roadworthy is dangerous not only to you but to other road users, and in many cases, it’s actually illegal. Don’t get caught out by not doing your pre-drive checks.
