Staff report
Here are a few tips from auto mechanics for anyone concerned about their car’s upkeep:
– Read the owner’s manual. Drivers often dump the manual in the glove compartment after learning how to set their car’s radio. But the book tells what service your car needs and when.
– Change the oil. This is a biggie, though there’s some debate about exactly how often it needs to be done. Should it be done at 3,000 miles or 5,000 miles? How about 15,000 miles if you’re using synthetic oil? It may be best to abide by the manufacturer’s recommendation, or maybe even 1,000 miles sooner.
– Garage your ride. A garage protects a car from the sun and other elements that can shorten its life.
– Hand wash. Hand washing cuts down on rust, scratches and general wear to the finish. Plus it saves money and keeps the owner aware of his car’s condition.
– Check your tires. Precisely adjusting the pressure in your tires extends their life and saves fuel.