Submitted by owner on Tue, 2012-01-17 11:30

Though you should leave most car maintenance to an ASE-Certified technician at your local Martinsville VA Auto Repair, many of us are efficient enough to do some regular monthly checks ourselves to keep our vehicles safe on the road. Besides, it’s always a good idea to get familiar with what’s under the hood of your car! Here are a few things to look out for when checking up on your vehicle:

Hoses and Belts: You can easily check your hoses and belts for cracking. Your hoses connect engine parts that don’t always move in relation to one another, so they should be flexible. But should you find a brittle or cracked hose, it should be replaced by an ASE-Certified technician at your reliable Martinsville VA Auto Repair. These belts are made of rubber and will wear over time, so checking their tension by giving a gentle tug is a fair thing to do. Examine the belts for any sign of fraying or cracking, and in either case you should have your belt replaced.

Fluid Levels: Most vehicles have reservoirs or dip sticks that will inform you of the proper fluid level or your car’s fluids. If you top the fluids yourself, you’ll never have to guess about your car’s vital fluids. However, if you find yourself having to top off your fluids often, it may be a sign that you have a leak. You could find more evidence of a leak by pulling out of your regular parking space and finding fresh fluid deposits on the ground. If you do suspect a leak, bring your vehicle by your local Martinsville VA Auto Repair for a check-up.

Tire Inflation and Wear: Not only will properly inflated tires increase your gas mileage, but will also give you better handling on the road. If you’re unsure of your tire’s wear, you can use the penny check to check your tread. Simply place a penny with Lincoln’s head upside-down and facing you in the tread of your tires. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, then it’s time to change your tires.

Find a Trusted Shop with ASE-Certified Technicians: When choosing a Martinsville VA Auto Repair, make sure they employ ASE-Certified technicians. They’ll be your best ally when it comes to maintaining your vehicle!