Do you have a car but are unsure what to check to maintain it properly? We can help. As your local auto insurance company in Maryland, we want clients to keep their cars properly maintained to prevent accidents or future problems. If you have questions about car maintenance in Maryland or what to check for if you have a problem with your car, you can learn more about the components of car maintenance below.
Car Maintenence in Maryland
There are several important components to check when it comes to maintaining your car:
Oil
Your car’s oil needs to be changed every 3,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on the vehicle. You can use an electronic gauge or dipstick to check the oil level. Car oil is important to ensure the engine parts are lubricated and moving properly. If your car is low on oil, you may hear loud sounds caused by metal parts hitting together.
Battery
Your car battery helps provide enough power to start your vehicle. You can check under the front hood if your battery has fluid buildup or leaks. You can clean the contacts with a brush or have your car serviced. Keep jumper cables in your car if you have to jump-start your vehicle.
Belts
Timing belts need to be replaced at 60,000 miles. Serpentine belts need to be replaced after 40,000 miles. Timing belts help control the pistons and valves in your vehicle, while serpentine belts keep the air conditioning, alternator, and power steering pump working.
Tires
Checking your tire’s tread and air pressure can prevent problems, especially in colder months. If your car senses any change in your tire pressure, or if your tire is slowly leaking, but you can’t find the cause, get your car serviced. Rotating, replacing, or patching up tires can help the tires work properly.
Spark Plugs
You need to change your spark plugs from 30,000 miles to 100,000 miles. Spark plugs ignite the air-fuel mixture to keep engines running properly.
Filters
It is simpler to clean cabin filters or the air filters inside your car. If your engine’s air filter is clogged, you can have it serviced. Clogged air filters in the engine can cause misfires, idling, and hard starts.
Car Fluids
Knowing where to check your windshield wiper fluid, engine coolant, and power steering fluids can keep your windows clean and make it easier to steer your car. Engine coolant, also known as antifreeze, keeps your engine cool, especially in hot weather. Power steering fluids help you use the steering wheel with ease. These fluids help the hydraulics of your car’s steering wheel. Sometimes these fluids have gauges and dipsticks so you can check their levels.
Make sure to regularly check your tires and any indicator lights in your car. Get regular car servicing, particularly oil changes, when needed. If you’re looking for auto insurance in Maryland, call 301-476-1183 or request a quote at Roadway Auto Insurance today.