It is no secret that vehicles need regular maintenance to keep them operating properly. When these are ignored, it can not only cause a mechanical failure, it can produce a much more serious problem that can cost thousands of dollars. 1. The first maintenance that people should think of, is the oil change. This is done traditionally about every 3,000 miles, and it vital to the life of the engine. Between oil changes, it is a good idea to periodically check the oil level, and top it up if necessary. Every time the oil is changed, the other fluids, such as transmission, and power steering, should be checked as well. 2. Radiators are meant to cool the engine, and when they are cracked, leaking, or low on fluid, they can’t do their job. Any time the temperature of the vehicle is running a little hotter than normal, it is time to check out the reason. It may be as simple as adding more coolant, however, there is usually a reason this has happened. Never operate a vehicle whose temperature gauge has gone into the danger zone unless you want a costly engine repair or replacement. 3. Everyone knows how important brakes are, yet few people take the time to have them checked on a regular basis. Having these checked out by a professional, periodically, is much better than finding out that for yourself that they are not working. 4. Tire pressure is another easy maintenance procedure that almost everyone can do. Letting the pressure go below the recommended level is not only not good for the tires, it will decrease the mpg, and in the long run, cost more money in fuel expenses. 5. Tires do need to be rotated occasionally. This keeps them from wearing unevenly, and extends their life and usability. Most tires are expensive, and having them rotated at the same time as every third or fourth oil change is a good idea. Tires that are extremely worn should be replaced. 6. Vehicles cannot work properly or efficiently if they can’t breathe. Oil filters are replaced at the time of oil changes, however, it is a good idea to regularly replace air filters as well. 7. Some cars seem to naturally want to pull to the right or the left. This is a sign that the alignment is off, and over time, this lack of proper alignment can result in more problems. 8. Many times people do not think about exhaust systems until there is a major problem. They should be checked to make sure that they are secure, and have no leaks that may produce fumes. 9. If the vehicle hesitates, or fails to start after a few minutes, chances are that it may be the battery. Batteries should be checked, and replaced when necessary. 10. Many of us do not think about the wiper blades until we need them. These do wear out, and technically, they should be replaced about twice a year. Simple maintenance on any vehicle can eliminate a lot of the problems that people encounter on the road. It is much easier to fix these before they become a more serious issue, and certainly a lot cheaper. Category:Home › Other • Pomegranates: A newly discovered superfood • Where did the joke why did the chicken cross the road come from and why is it funny? • Can mothers diagnosed with bipolar disorder make good parents? • Spiritual evolution of human consciousness • Tips for getting a college basketball scholarship • Living with Pseudotumor cerebri (PTC) • Caring for the caregiver • Technologys impact on society