Motoring With Tawanda Matanhire

By Tawanda Matanhire
Hope your ride is now more enjoyable, and you are now equipped with a better understanding on vehicle maintenance. My last articles were laden with tips on how best to achieve this. The feed back has been phenomenal, giving a picture that many people out there are benefitting from the handy tips.

This week, we are rounding up on tips of taking care of our cars, the goal being to make sure our vehicles keep their value and you get the best out of your invested effort on your loved machines.

Replace Wipers
The country’s rainy season is nigh and car wipers are a vital component of your car that needs regular checking. You will realise their need when you are unexpectedly caught up in a storm and they are are not working. It could also happen that something unexpectedly splashes onto the windscreen thereby impairing your vision ahead.

Good wiper blades keep your visibility clear during rains

Old and worn-out wipers are not advisable especially in bad weather. Don’t wait for a larger repair job to replace your wipers. Replace them before you think you need to.

To check if there is need for replacement, simply run them on a dirty windscreen. If streaks remain on the screen after using them, it may be time to get a new set. Wipers are cheap and simple to replace. Your dealer, mechanic and local auto parts store can all help you find the right wipers for your car.

Replace The Engine Air Filter
Think of the engine air filter as your car’s lungs. Your car “breathes” better with clean filters. Replacing filters improves acceleration and fuel economy. Your vehicle’s engine works best on a mixture of air and fuel. Any debris or other contaminants that get sucked into your engine along with air can damage its ability to run well. This is why it is important to replace a dirty or dusty filter for a cleaner engine.

A clean air filter keeps your car breathing properly

Check Spark Plugs
Clean and working spark plugs are essential to a smooth running engine. However, as with the battery, your spark plugs can get covered in build-up. Dirty spark plugs mean the engine’s performance will be strained in the process of fuel combustion thereby reducing it’s efficiency.

Comparison of new and spent spark plug

Spark plugs need constant replacement throughout the lifespan of your car. They are also one of the cheapest engine parts to replace.

Check Your Brake Pads
Keep your car running safely by checking your brake pads. While your vehicle may have built-in sensors to alert you if the brake pads need attention, you should be conscious of problematic signs in the form of squeaking sounds or grinding of metal when you step on the brake pedal. Any such sounds could be worth checking lest you fail to stop in the event of unforeseen hazards on the roads. Brake linings wear gradually, so you might not notice if they are not working well until something goes wrong.

Check Hand Brake
The efficiency of your park brake often referred to as the hand brake is also vital. This can be done whilst the vehicle is stationary. Apply the park brake; start the engine, engage low gear and attempt to move the vehicle forward under light throttle. You can also take the vehicle to an inclined area, engage neutral gear and engage the park brake. If it moves forwards or backwards, attention is needed. Take the vehicle to a mechanic.

Checking hand brake tension

Be Nice to Your Car
A clean car not only makes the driver happy, it helps the car run better too. This is probably the simplest car maintenance advice, but easily overlooked. With how busy life gets, car owners often don’t make time to clean out and wash a car.

Car cleaning is always essential

Here’s why you should be nice to your car:

Washing not only keeps your vehicle looking good, it is also a good way to maintain that new-car finish. Allowing layers of dead bugs, bird droppings, dirt, and chemicals to accumulate on your vehicle can strip away wax and eventually, the paint. Without a protective layer, your vehicle can begin to rust.

If you decide to wash your car yourself, don’t use household cleaning agents like hand soap or glass cleaner. These cleaners can strip off the protective wax. Use a cleaning product designed specifically for cars instead.

Of course, the exterior of your car isn’t the only thing you need to keep up with. It’s interior is also as important.

Another way to keep your vehicle performing at its best is to simply take it easy while driving. This may seem like a silly tip, but is very important. Just like the human body, pushing your vehicle too hard can take a toll over time.

Taking off quickly or applying the brakes suddenly increases premature wear and tear. Simply drive smart and safe to keep your car in good condition longer.

Keeping Automotive Tools Also Handy
One of the best ways to keep your vehicle running is to work on a problem as soon as it arises. You can do this if you have the right tools. Carry the basic automotive tools with you at all times, although it is advisable to seek a professional if unsure.

Basic automotive tools

Cover Your Car
Depending on where you live, you can help your car last longer by covering it up. Keeping your car away from sunlight and other outdoor elements can add years to the life of the paint job. You can buy special car covers for your brand and style.

Keeping it in the garage or under a carport is also a useful option. Keeping paint fresh and new helps keep your car from rusting.

Until next week , please get in touch with me for anything relating to buying and selling of cars on my personal number. Nhau/Indaba

Whatsapp: 0775355031
Email: tmweshona@gmail.com

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