MAINTENANCE TIPS

At Autofactorng, we don’t only care about bringing you the best products and services for your vehicle and your convenience, we also care about the day-to-day use of your vehicle. And because of that, we want to make you (our customers) car-aware. We also know how to help you get the most from your car. In terms of getting general tips about your everyday use of your vehicle, and also tips about warning indications and what you should take note of, how to maintain the key parts of your vehicle, and knowing when to replace them.

 

REGULAR CAR CARE AND MAINTENANCE

 

The Car Care and maintenance schedule is to provide general guidelines for the regular maintenance of your vehicle. Intervals are built around an oil change every 3,000 miles.

 

EVERY MONTH

• Tire Inflation and Status

Check the pressure of all tires, including the spare. Check the tread for uneven or irregular wear and cuts, or bruises along the side of the tire. Inflate tires and maintain them at the recommended pressure. Replace tires if worn or damaged.

• Cleaning and Polishing

To prevent the fading of your vehicle's glossy surface, use only automotive car wash products, not dishwashing liquids. Polish at least twice a year to maintain and protect the gloss finish.

• Check Engine Light On

If the check engine indicator light comes on while driving, or the engine remains on, your vehicle may have an emissions or sensor problem and should be analyzed. If the light flashes, the condition is more severe and must be checked immediately to prevent any further damage.

• Windshield Washer Fluid

Check fluid level monthly. Do not use water. Use washer fluid only.

 

EVERY 2/3 MONTHS OR 3,000 MILES

• Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

Check the ATF fluid level with the engine running and gear transmission in "park". If low, add the type of automatic transmission fluid specified for your vehicle stated in the owner's manual and/or on the dipstick. For maximum performance, change every two years or 24,000 miles.

• Engine Oil and Filter

Check the oil level with the engine off, and at every fill-up. For maximum engine life, change the oil and filter every two-to-three months, 3,000 miles, or as directed in your owner's manual. Use specified oil grade and weight.

• Engine Air Filter

Inspect the filter at each oil change. Replace annually or when leaking, torn, water or oil-soaked, dirty, or showing other signs of wear.

• Lights

Replace the bulb immediately if the light is out. Check fuses first.

• Hoses

Inspect all hoses at each oil change and replace them when leaking, brittle, cracked, rusted, swollen, or restricted.

• Battery and Cables

The battery should be securely mounted. Battery connection should be clean, tight, and corrosion free. If the battery is three years old or more, it should be tested and replaced if necessary.

• Exhaust

Inspect for leaks, damage, and broken supports or hangers if there is an unusual noise. Exhaust leaks can be dangerous and must be corrected without delay.

 

EVERY 6 MONTHS OR 6,000 MILES

• Fuel Filter

Inspect the filter at each oil change. Replace if restricted or water-contaminated, or once a year in cars with carburetors. In cars with fuel injectors, replace filters every two years or 24,000 miles. 

• Belts

Check V-belts and Serpentine belts for looseness and their condition. Replace when cracked, frayed, glazed, or showing signs of excessive wear. Replace the timing belt per interval specified in the owner's manual. Typically this is 60,000 to 90,000 miles. Not replacing the belt as required could cause a breakdown or serious engine damage.

• Brakes

Check the entire brake system every six months, including brake linings, discs, and drums.

• Wiper Blades

Replace every six months or when cracked, cut, torn, streaking, or chattering.

 

EVERY 12 MONTHS OR 12,000 MILES

• Cabin Air Filter

Replace annually, or more often in areas with heavy airborne contaminants, or whenever heating or cooling efficiency is reduced.

• Coolant

Check the level at the reservoir. Never open a hot radiator cap! If low, add a 50/50 mix of approved coolant and distilled water. Change coolant annually on most vehicles.

• Power Steering Fluid

Check the fluid with the car warmed up. Add the correct type of fluid if low. If frequent topping off is required, inspect for leaks and replace if contaminated.

• Steering and Suspension

Inspect the system annually, including shock absorbers, struts, and chassis parts, such as ball joints, tie rod ends, and other related components. Replace if leaks, damage, and loose mounting hardware are found. Symptoms of worn suspension include uneven tire wear and excessive bouncing after climbing bumps.