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Car Maintenance Tips

GIVING YOUR VEHICLE A MORE RELIABLE ALL SEASONS RIDE IN IDAHO

Article by Stephen Kyle Singson

Photography by Provided

Think of your vehicle as a person: in day-to-day life, you run normally, without many hiccups beyond random chance encounters; however, it’s important to keep your body in top shape to maintain this, which includes eating well and exercising. Also, Getjerry.com claims that Boise, Idaho has the worst traffic in the United States. When compared to how far you could drive in the same amount of time on less congested routes, your range could be cut by 14.4 miles in Boise. 

Your vehicle is no different: in order for your vehicle to continue performing as best as possible, regular maintenance and service are required. In fact, not having regular check-ups may affect your manufacturer’s warranty. So, don't wait to distract your way in many ways, and be prepared by the following suggestions such as the maintenance of your Toyota Tacoma with Edmark Toyota.

What to Do If Your Car Won’t Start

Call for help. When you need roadside service for your car, truck, or SUV in Boise, ID, call PayneWest Insurance. They provide auto insurance with emergency services such as battery replacement, tire changes, and flat tire repair.

Turn everything off. From electronics and climate control to any other accessories that can be powered down, make sure to turn all of them off. This can make it easier for another car to start yours and can prevent potential damage from voltage surges when power is restored.

Raise the hood and leave it open. This is a universal sign for help that doesn’t use your battery. If you don’t already know, consult your owner’s manual to find where your battery is located. If you find corrosion around the negative terminal, carefully brush it off or knock it loose with a wrench or tire iron. Do not blow on it, as this can result in debris entering your eyes.

Jump-start your car. If possible, use a jump box, which is a compact, rechargeable battery that can jump-start your car. They’re safer and easier than jumper cables and provide a gentler jump-start for your engine.

LEFT: The Edmark Toyota auto repair center and body shop provide services such as a basic oil change to installing a new transmission. RIGHT: At Lithia Ford Lincoln of Boise, their expert service department team will do everything they can to make your experience as efficient and pleasurable as possible.

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Check the Basic Needs of a Vehicle

Change Oil 

You should check your owner's manual for the suggested maintenance plan interval, but keep in mind that modern car engines can go longer than 3,000 miles between oil changes. Chevron, a sizable oil company that sells a variety of high-quality fuels and other goods, including gasoline, diesel, and lubricants, owns and operates a number of gas stations in the Boise area.

Fluid Levels

Filling up your fluids is a quick and easy process that won't take up too much of your time. Lubricant, coolant, gearbox, power steering, washer, and brake fluids are all examples.

Filters

Filters in vehicles should be changed every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. During an oil change, you can check on and perhaps replace most of them. Filters can be found in the engine's air intake, oil sump, fuel tank, and passenger compartment.

Spark Plugs

Every 100,000 miles, you should swap out your spark plugs. More involved than just getting the oil changed, the time and money required to do this can vary greatly depending on the model and year of your car.

Belts and Hoses

The performance of your vehicle is greatly impacted by the condition of its belts and hoses. Belts wear out because the rubber hardens and cracks over time. Wear on the belt's outside edge is another indication that it needs to be changed.

The hoses used to transport the coolant are crucial, as they must withstand temperatures of up to 200 degrees. Overheating and the loss of power steering are only two of the issues that might arise from a broken belt or hose, among others. Overheating your engine can cause the cylinder heads to deform, which is a difficult and costly repair.

Typical hose inspection checks for several common issues: softening, swelling, hardening, cracking, chafing, and heat damage. If any of these problems are found, you will need to repair your hoses.

Brakes

Small problems with the brakes might escalate over time. The expense of repairs can balloon if you put them off. Time and money can be saved by having the brakes checked during routine maintenance.

It's important to check discs for flaws like scratches, warping, or damage. If they are clean and shining, they probably don't need any upkeep. These components require rapid attention in the event of damage or warping.

Both the rubber and metal brake lines in your vehicle are susceptible to cracking and leaking. First, our professionals will check the suppleness and integrity of the rubber hoses. The strong metal brake lines will then be inspected for rust and leaks. If either is broken, you should probably get a new one.

Batteries

These days' automobiles are essentially mobile computer labs. That's why keeping your battery in top shape is more crucial than ever. Lithia Ford Lincoln of Boise has the expertise to help you navigate what can be a confusing process by determining which battery is best for your car.

Tires

Keeping your tires well-maintained not only improves your safety but also your vehicle's fuel economy and the lifespan of the tires themselves. If you want to get the most out of your tires, follow these easy steps.

  • Tire manufacturers typically recommend rotating tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles.
  • At least once per month, after sitting for at least three hours and with the vehicle's tires "cold," you should check the pressure of all tires, including the spare. A plaque detailing the optimal tire pressure can usually be found on the inside of the driver's doorpost.

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