In accordance with a study conducted by the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association, approximately 9 out of 10 female drivers have involvement in the decision-making process for their household’s car maintenance and repair. However, how much do women really know about the inner workings of their vehicle and the care it needs?
A recent survey by Jiffy Lube International reveals that 35% of women mistakenly believe that balancing the weight of people in the car will help the tires last longer while 28% wrongfully think that using premium gas all the time makes the car run better.
Ladies, it’s time to see car care in a new light. The following tips will help you better take care of your beloved car:
1) Let an expert do a preventive maintenance checklist.
A preventive maintenance service done on a regular basis can help prolong the life of your car. This normally includes inspecting belts and hoses, topping off fluid levels, checking tire pressure and the engine oil, as well as ensuring all the lights work.
2) Examine the engine oil and filter.
Given that the engine oil is the lifeblood of your car, you need to check it regularly as well as the owner’s manual for when to change the oil and which grade to use.
3) Don’t forget the engine air filter.
The engine air filter acts as the lung of the vehicle. Make sure that your car is breathing clearly by referring to your owner’s manual to see when it must be swapped out.
4) Learn how to check tire pressure and change a tire.
It’s never fun to have a flat tire, and learning how to change it can really save you from distress. Of course, the best place to learn this is in the workshop and the best teacher is a professional mechanic. It is also important to ensure the tires are filled to the proper tire pressure, which can be found in the vehicle owner’s manual or on a decal in the glove compartment or door jamb. Don’t forget to check and fill the spare tire.
5) Be mindful of your gas consumption.
Two of the best ways to help the gas mileage is to observe the speed limit and ensure the tires are correctly inflated. Eliminating the additional weight from your back seat or trunk can also help.
6) Get rid of worn wiper blades.
Wiper blades must be replaced around every six months. Check for cracks on a regular basis and use a wet paper towel to clean off dirt from the blades.
7) Be ready during emergencies.
Emergencies come without warning. Hence, it is important to be prepared at all times by ensuring that your car’s emergency kit is restocked.
Hope these tips help. Have a safe and happy driving experience here in Dubai!
