Preventative Maintenance Checks

Although most car maintenance should be left to an ASE Certified Technician, drivers can avoid serious and unexpected auto issues by doing some of their own monthly maintenance. All drivers should take the time to get familiar with what’s under the hood. Here’s your checklist for preventative maintenance:

Check your belts and hoses for cracking
Give your belts a gentle tug and check the tension. Examine the belts and look for any sign of cracking or fraying – in either case you should have the belt inspected and replaced.
Because your hoses are rubber they will eventually wear over time, but having a little slack is typical. Brittle or cracked hoses should be replaced by an ASE certified technician to prevent failure.

Check fluid levels
Most vehicles have dip sticks or reservoirs that indicate sufficient fluid levels. Check these levels to maintain proper fluid in your vehicle. If you’re filling up often, you may have a leak. Pull out of your normal parking spot and check for fresh fluid on the ground.

Check tire inflation and wear – Properly inflated tires increase your safety and fuel economy. Under-inflated tires will reduce fuel economy, while over-inflated tires will decrease traction and safe cornering speeds. Generally, the manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure is a good medium between the two. Check for uneven wear and pitting, as this is an indication of improper alignment.

Check lights and indicators – If you haven’t checked your car’s lights recently, you may be surprised to see that some have burned out. Be sure the brake lights are on when the brake pedal is depressed, as problems can occur with the pedal switch that activates the lights.

Find a trusted shop with ASE Certified Technicians – When searching for professional Lincoln car service, be on the lookout for a professional ASE Certified Technician. They are your best ally in keeping your car running and catching any preventative maintenance issues.