10 Car Tune-Up Tips for the Mechanically Challenged
Let's face it: not everyone is born with a silver spanner in their mouths, but that doesn't mean your car has to suffer. Even those of us who don't know a piston from a spark plug can still keep our cars running well by observing a few tips that are simple enough for anyone to follow.
1. Be sure to fasten your gas cap tightly after fueling up
Believe it or not, loose gas caps cause more than 100,000,000 gallons of gas to evaporate every year. The simple act of tightening your gas cap thoroughly after fueling up can prevent fuel evaporation, and reduce excessive air in the gas tank, which can cause poor performance.
2. Fill up with low-octane gasoline
Always buy the lowest grade octane gas for your car. Filling up with high-octane fuel will only waste money, and has not been proven to increase fuel economy or engine performance at all.
3. Keep your tires properly inflated
Driving around on under inflated tires reduces fuel economy, puts more strain on your engine, and will wear out your tires in no time at all. Poorly inflated tires can also be hazardous on the road as they make the car more sluggish to control. Don't know how to check your tire pressure? Here's how to start:
Buy a digital tire gauge and keep it in your car at all times. At least once a month, remove the tire valve cap and place the digital gauge upon the valve tightly. The digital LED will show you a pressure number -- simply compare this number to the number you see listed on your tires (usually XX PSI, where X = your recommended tire pressure).
If these two numbers are off by more than 2-3 PSI, it's time to head to the gas station and inflate the tires back up to the proper level. Extra tip: never check your tire pressure after returning from a trip in the car -- a cold tire will give you the most accurate reading.
4. Have your car serviced bi-annually
If you're not mechanically inclined, you can at least keep up with the mileage on your car and take it in for a "check up" at every 10,000 miles.
5. Have the oil changed every 3000 miles
Quick and convenient oil change locations are readily available in any metropolitan area; so there's no excuse not to visit one and have your oil changed every 3000 miles. This tip alone can save you an enormous amount of trouble with your car in the long run.
6. Replace your filters
Over time, engine filters get clogged with debris and gunk. The best practice is to have them checked every time you change the oil and the car -- every 3000 miles.
7. Be sure to use the right oil
We've talked about the importance of getting your oil changed every 3000 miles, but also take time to check your manual and be sure you're using the recommended grade of oil. Using the wrong oil grade can noticeably decrease your engine performance.
8. Keep your car out of the sun
As well as causing the inside of your car to be uncomfortably hot, parking your car in the sun can damage your paint job and cause cracks in rubber moldings around doors, trunks and sunroofs, which can lead to leaks and water damage.
9. Keep your car in a garage
Many people use their garage as a storeroom and leave their car out on the street or in the driveway. Big mistake. Exposing your car to the elements will increase rust --a car’s worst enemy.
10. Don't fill your gas tank up to the brim
Once the fuel pump handle "clicks," stop fueling immediately. Any additional fuel will remain in the top reservoir of the gas tank, where it will most likely evaporate and never be used anyway.
Read the Top 10 Tips to Tune Up Your Car