We understand it is still August, but the 2021-2022 school year will be here before we know it. Now is the perfect time to make sure your vehicle is suited to handle the carpools, college commutes, and even trips back to the office. Despite where and when your back-to-school season starts, our team of experts at Lorentz Automotive has relevant car maintenance tips to share.
TIP #1: INSPECT YOUR TIRES
It would help if you first did something most drivers often overlook: check the tread wear on your tires. The wheels on your automobile are legally required to have a minimum of 2/32 of an inch of wear. However, the industry highly suggests that you have your tires replaced with as little as 4/32 of an inch to ensure the most safety. Tires that are overworn are hazardous for several reasons:
- Hindered stopping power
- Higher likelihood of a tire blowout
- Loss of tire traction in wet weather conditions
TIP #2: CHANGE YOUR OIL
Motor oil is the lifeline of every vehicle, which is why oil changes are so imperative to your engine's well-being. Oil effectively reduces friction, keeps engine wear and tear to a minimum, and eliminates sludge from your machine. The average car requires new oil anywhere between 3,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on whether you use conventional, synthetic, or a blend of both.
TIP #3: EXAMINE YOUR BRAKES
Your brake pads are a critical safety component that could very well wear down during the school season. It would be beneficial to regularly check your brakes since they are essential for your and your children's safety. If you regard a loud squeal every time you touch your brakes, you should consider that as a warning to replace your brakes soon. Overworn brakes can eventually prevent your car from stopping completely, which is very dangerous.
TIP #4: TOP OFF ESSENTIAL FLUIDS
Your vehicle has multiple fluids that need to be refreshed every so often, which is why you should inspect them regularly. Your liquids should be free of sludge or debris to ensure they function correctly. The six essential fluids of every automobile are windshield wiper fluid, engine oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, and coolant.
If you require maintenance, please reach out to our specialist at Lorentz Automotive. Our experienced technicians will have your car reliable and primed for the back-to-school season. Give us a call or visit today!