Getting driving lessons might teach you a lot of things. However, these classes won’t give you all the information you need to know about your car. You’re spending a significant amount of money on payments, repairs and maintenance. Therefore, it’s only natural to think that you would have a better relationship with your vehicle.
You don’t need to know everything about your vehicle. While it would be helpful if you knew some of the basic elements and find the expert mechanics that Perth car owners trust. This will ensure that your car is kept in good and secure condition.
Here are some of the basic things you should know about your car:
The Year, Make and Model
The first pieces of information you should know about your vehicle is the year it was manufactured, its specific model and its make. This information might seem like a no-brainier, but you would be surprised to discover how many people do not know these details. They are usually unaware of the model or the year, which can lead to huge mistakes. Keep in mind that choosing the parts, fluids and accessories needed for repair and maintenance depends on the vehicle’s year, make and model. It is important that you have the accurate information.
VIN
Think of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) as the fingerprint of your car. This is the 17-digit number that identifies your vehicle’s manufacture place, date, model, make and engine size, along with other important information. Your car retains the same VIN throughout its life. You do not have to memories it, but you do have to know where to find it. Stand outside the car on the driver’s side and look at the corner of the dashboard close to the windshield. Knowing your VIN is useful when you’re dealing with insurance companies and mechanics, and can use it to look up information needed for buying the parts for your car. This will also be significantly helpful when you bring your vehicle to the mechanic that Perth residents always choose.
Routine Maintenance
If you want to keep your vehicle running smoothly, it would be advisable to stick to the maintenance schedule recommended in the given manual. Your manual should tell you when you need to change your oil, when to rotate your tires, when to check your fluids and other maintenance necessities. Keep in mind that every vehicle has its own maintenance schedule. You should follow it to maintain the optimum performance, longevity and health of your car. If you are not sure when to get these maintenance services, do not hesitate to bring your vehicle to European Prestige Auto Service. Our expert technician will provide you with all the information and car service procedures you need.
Tire Pressure
One of the most neglected maintenance concerns of many car owners is tire pressure. When we see the alert on the dashboard, we often ignore it and wait until we have to fill up the gas tank. Ignoring the alert can result in a flat or blown out tire. Your tires will more easily wear out or pick up a nail, leading to an earlier than expected tire replacement. Keep in mind that tires are expensive. However, if you take care of them, they can last you over 50,000 miles.
Engine Light
It is only natural to worry or panic when dashboard lights illuminate. You can consult your car manual or talk to a petrol or diesel mechanic to know what the lights mean. Keep in mind that they vary among car manufacturers. In general, these are the three categories of dashboard lights:
- Blue or green: Activated or go.
- Yellow: Have this checked out as soon as possible.
- Red: Get help now! This light sometimes relates to passenger safety.
The Correct Way to Drive your Car
When it comes to driving, you have to know that there are ‘right’ and ‘wrong’ ways to do it. For instance, it is ideal to keep your vehicle running at a smooth pace instead of alternating between braking and accelerating. The former promotes fuel efficiency while reducing the wear on the moving parts of your system.
Driving According to the Weather
The weather in Australia is not always sunny and calm. So, it is essential to know how to handle your vehicle in adverse conditions such as heavy rain. You can practice on a closed course or in a parking lot to learn survival maneuvers like turning out of a skid.
Diagnosing a Braking Problem
One of the most important safety features in your car is your brakes. However, it is quite difficult to tell if they are starting to wear out. You have to know your braking system intimately. When you start to notice signs of trouble, you should take action immediately. Some signs include smelling burning carpet or feeling spongy brakes. Keep in mind that when you take care of your brakes, you are avoiding accidents and saving your life, as well as the lives of other people on the road.
When you Should Have your Car Serviced
It is always a good idea to schedule your vehicle for various sorts of ongoing maintenance procedures. When it comes to luxury and exotic cars, you should only place your trust in the hands of the expert technicians at European Prestige Auto Service. With the latest car diagnostic technology, we will be able to assess any trouble your vehicle might have. Our mechanics are experienced to handle most European vehicles. Needless to say, they will know your every part of your car like the back of their hands.
So, are you ready to get your car serviced? Contact European Prestige Auto Service to schedule an appointment!