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Keeping your car in tip-top shape can help prevent unnecessary repair bills and unexpected trips to the mechanic. One essential car maintenance task is a routine oil change. Oil changes are a must for proper vehicle care, but they can be easy and relatively inexpensive.
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Your car’s engine is complex and contains numerous moving parts. Oil lubricates these moving parts and keeps everything running smoothly, says Angie’s List. Over time some of the motor oil burns off — leaving a thick sludge behind. This sludge reduces the oil’s ability to lubricate the parts properly, which can lead to engine wear. Checking your oil can help determine if the oil needs to be changed and if there is enough in the car.
According to Cars.com, here are some of the reasons why you should change your car’s oil:
Consumer Reports suggests that drivers check their oil at every other gas fill-up. Start by consulting your owner’s manual. It should contain information on how to check the oil in your vehicle. Once your car is parked on level ground and the engine is off, Consumer Reports recommends these steps for checking your oil:
Which kind of oil you use in your vehicle depends on your engine’s needs and the manufacturer’s recommendations in the owner’s manual. You can choose synthetic oil, conventional oil or high-mileage oil, depending on your engine’s needs and the expected oil life. Also, you’ll need to choose the right viscosity for your engine — that information is typically found on your engine’s oil cap or in the vehicle’s owner’s manual.
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Every car manufacturer has a slightly different recommended oil change schedule. Consult your owner’s manual to find your car manufacturer’s suggested oil change interval. When a dealership or service center changes your vehicle’s oil, they will typically put a sticker on your window to tell you when your car is due for another oil change.
When you have the oil changed, it’s a good idea to check the oil filter, as well. You may also want to perform other routine maintenance, such as checking the brakes, rotating the tires and topping off fluids, says Angie’s List. Be sure to ask your mechanic what inspections they perform during an oil change. Routine oil changes are a key part of car maintenance to help keep your vehicle running smoothly. If you need help checking or changing your oil, consult a car care professional.
Originally published on October 1, 2016.
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Proper brake pad maintenance is not only critical for helping your car last, but also for your safety as a driver or passenger. Simply put, your vehicle’s brakes are what enable you to slow down and stop. To help ensure your vehicle can stop safely, consider these tips on when and how to check your car’s brake pads.
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There’s no specific schedule for when it’s time to replace your brake pads, according to Cars.com. That means it’s a good idea to check your brake pads regularly to help determine the amount of wear and tear. Typical brake pad wear depends on how and where you drive, says Cars.com. For example, if you drive in urban areas, your brake pads may wear out faster than they would if you drove on rural roads due to the stopping and starting of city traffic.
Whether you go to a professional mechanic or handle maintenance yourself, it’s a good idea to check the brake pads each time your tires are rotated — about every six months, says Cars.com. It’s also a good idea to check your car owner’s manual or talk to a professional technician so you understand what service schedule and parts may be right for your particular vehicle.
Fortunately, brake pads are designed to provide clear signals that they need to be checked and possibly replaced. Here are some ways to check your brakes:
Here are a few ways you can be in-tune with your brakes and whether it’s time to have them checked.
If you have concerns about whether or not your brake system is functioning properly, you should have it inspected by a professionally immediately.
It can also be helpful to take a look at your brakes to see if there are any obvious signs of wear and tear. When the car is parked safely and the ignition is off, follow these tips for visually inspecting your brake pads:
Cars.com says some common signs that may indicate it’s time to replace your brake pads include:
If you do not feel comfortable checking your brake pads, take your vehicle to a local dealership or repair shop where a professional can do it for you. Not only will replacing worn brake pads help make your car safer, it may help save money in the long run by helping prevent avoidable accidents.
Originally published on May 29, 2017.
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Have you ever pulled your car into your garage, opened the car door and accidentally hit the wall? Just like that, the side of your car door has a ding. We’ve all been there, but there’s an inexpensive way to help avoid dents and dings. A pool noodle may be the key to helping protect your car doors, according to Precision Garage Door of Salt Lake.
Watch this video to see how a pool noodle can become a bumper for your car door.
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First, gather these materials:
Use a utility knife or box cutter to cut the pool noodle in half lengthwise. Take care when cutting — do this step on a flat surface such as a workbench or the garage floor. You may also want to consider wearing work gloves while cutting.
Carefully open your car door to determine where it makes contact with the garage wall. Using a pencil, lightly mark the point of contact on the wall. Using that mark as your guide, draw a longer line horizontally across the wall. If desired, you can use a measuring tape to make sure you are extending your line at the correct height or for the length of the pool noodle.
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Cut two strips of mounting tape the length of the pool noodle. Apply these strips of tape to the edges of the noodle. Then, attach the noodle to the wall, horizontally along the line you marked earlier.
Alternatively, The Family Handyman says you could use nails to attach the pool noodle to the wall to really help it stay in place. However, be sure to use the appropriate tools and nails for your garage wall.
Again, carefully open the car door. It should now touch the soft pool noodle instead of the wall. If it doesn’t, remount the noodle at the appropriate height.
No one likes dents in their car, especially when it is from something as simple as opening the door. Use this quick fix to help avoid door dings by mounting a simple pool noodle to your garage wall.
Originally posted on November 16, 2016.
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Do your car windows need a good cleaning? There may be a simple solution in your cabinets. According to Reader’s Digest, a mixture of vinegar, ammonia and cornstarch can help you get sparkling car windows without leaving streaks.
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Start by gathering the ingredients you need to make the glass cleaning solution:
You’ll also need a clean bucket to use while you’re mixing the solution. When the cleaner is ready, you’ll need a spray bottle and clean cloth, such as a microfiber towel, to use while cleaning.
Follow these steps to get clean windows without pesky streaks.
In a bucket, combine 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with ½ cup ammonia, ½ cup white vinegar and 3 to 4 quarts of warm water. Mix the ingredients together — Reader’s Digest says it’s normal for it to look milky.
Pour the finished mixture into an empty spray bottle. Then, spray the solution onto your car window.
Wipe the window with warm water to rinse off the solution and loosened dirt. Then, use a lint-free cloth or paper towel to dry the window.
Repeat this process for each window on your vehicle.
For best results, consider these window-cleaning tips from Angie’s List:
Making sure your car windows are clean not only helps your car to look it’s best, but can also help improve visibility while you’re driving. With this homemade glass cleaner and a little effort, you’ll have a clearer view of the road ahead.
Originally published on October 2, 2017.
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If you live in an area where winter means driving on icy, snow-covered roads, you likely understand how challenging those road conditions can be on your car — not to mention how stressful it can be for the driver. There are a few things you can do, though, to help ensure your tires have as much traction as possible. Consider these tips to help prepare your tires for winter weather:
Your tires’ tread is what gives them their ability to grip the road. So, one of the first ways to tell if your tires are ready for winter roads is to examine the tread on each tire, including the spare. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends checking your tires at least once a month. If a tire has uneven or excessive wear, it should be replaced.
NHTSA says tire tread depth should be a minimum of 2/32 of an inch. To check this, hold a penny between your thumb and forefinger so that Lincoln’s head is showing. Place the top of Lincoln’s head into one of the grooves of the tire’s tread. If any part of Lincoln’s head is obscured by the tread, you have a safe amount of tread, according to NHTSA. If you can see above Lincoln’s head, then you need a new tire.
Tires that are not inflated to the correct pressure may negatively affect your car’s handling, according to Cars.com. And, as the temperatures outside drop, the NHTSA says your tires will lose pressure. This is why it’s important to check your tire pressure throughout the winter.
The recommended tire pressure for a vehicle is typically listed on a sticker inside the driver’s door, or it can be found in the owner’s manual, says Cars.com. Use a tire pressure gauge, which you can get at most gas stations or auto parts stores, to check that each tire is at the correct pressure. (Edmunds recommends checking the tires before driving, as the friction created when driving affects the pressure.) If necessary, use an air compressor to inflate the tires. If any of the tires are overinflated, use the small bead on the back of the tire pressure gauge to release some air.
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You might think winter tires are only for areas where the winter weather conditions are very harsh, with lots of ice and snow. But, winter tires, which used to be called snow tires, are designed to work in lower temperatures regardless of road conditions, according to Road and Track Magazine. In fact, colder temperatures may cause standard tires to become too hard and lose their normal traction, even when the roads are dry.
There are several types of tires you may want to consider for winter driving:
Your local mechanic or car dealership can help you decide which tires make sense for your area’s weather, and they can also recommend appropriate tires for your vehicle.
While preparing your car for the winter takes a little extra work, it can be worth it in the long run. Your car’s tires can help keep you safe on the road during winter, so remember these tips when preparing for the new season.
Originally posted on January 10, 2012.
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During those cold winter months, you may often find your windshield covered in frost. Maybe you let the car run with the defrost on, or you get out an ice scraper to clear your windshield. But, Meteorologist Ken Weathers has a tip that may help you clear up the frost quickly and with less effort.
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Put on rubber gloves, then mix two parts rubbing alcohol with one part water. (Do not use hot water, Weathers says, because it may crack your windshield. Room temperature or cold water is fine. Isopropyl alcohol can be used instead of rubbing alcohol, too.)
Pour the mixture into an empty spray bottle.
Spray the mixture onto your windshield, and watch the frost clear up.
You can even leave the spray bottle with the mixture in your car, because rubbing alcohol has a freezing point of 128 degrees below zero (in Fahrenheit), says Weathers.
As the temperatures drop, be ready for frosty days by having this simple defrosting spray at hand. By spending a few minutes to make this mixture, this quick fix can help you get on the road a little quicker.
Originally published on January 4, 2017.
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When dealing with the frigid temperatures of winter, there’s not much worse than coming out to your car to find the doors frozen shut. According to Lifehacker, car doors can freeze because water from rain or snow gets into the rubber seal, or gasket, around the door and then freezes when the temperatures drop. Fortunately, there is a simple trick that may help prevent this from happening, using nothing but ordinary household cooking spray.
Apply the spray to the door’s rubber seal weekly during the coldest winter months, or as needed before expected icy, frigid storms, says Brian L. Gochenour, laser operations manager and sales engineer at Broadway Metal Works.
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Any ordinary cooking spray should work.
Open your car door, and look for the rubber gasket all around its edge. Spray the rubber on the top, side and bottom of the door with the cooking spray.
Take a dry paper towel and gently rub the rubber seal to get rid of drips and excess spray.
Apply the cooking spray to each door on your car. This should help prevent the doors from freezing shut, and you’ll be able to get into your vehicle with ease in the cold weather.
Originally published on November 15, 2016.
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Buying a classic car has a certain appeal for some — whether it’s for nostalgic value or the joy of participating in a tight-knit collector community. Even if you’re new to the classic-car world, you’re likely aware that older cars can come with wear and tear or mechanical issues. With some due diligence and preparation, finding the right classic car can be a little easier. If you’re in the market for a classic car, consider these tips before making the purchase:
Owning a classic car is different from owning a newer vehicle in some key ways. Here are three important factors you may want to consider before buying a classic car:
First and foremost, you should formulate a budget so you know what you can afford. You should not only budget for the purchase price of the vehicle, but also the cost of maintenance, insurance and potential upgrades.
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AutoTrader notes that classic cars are older, so maintenance can be more costly. This is because quality parts for a classic car can be scarce, and it may be difficult to find a repair shop that works on classic vehicles. You may want to do some research to see if you can find repair shops that specialize in classic vehicle maintenance in your area. As you shop for a classic car, you may also want to consider any maintenance and repairs that may need to be completed on the vehicle, says CARFAX. You may be able to get some maintenance and parts estimates from specialty body shops so you know what to expect.
Finally, be sure to research market trends, as the cost of a classic car can fluctuate over time. The value of a classic car is usually dependent on the make and model of the vehicle, and how many of them were produced, says U.S. News and World Report. Whether the car is in its original condition or has been restored can also be a determining factor when it comes to price. If you’re looking to purchase a classic car as an investment, remember to do your research and keep these considerations in mind. Online discussion forums for your desired vehicle make, resources such as Hemmings or the National Automobile Dealers Association, and specialty car shops can all be helpful sources of insight and data, says AutoTrader.
A classic car purchase often warrants a closer inspection and a longer test drive than newer models, so you can accurately see how it’s running, says CARFAX. As you shop for your classic car, be prepared to spend some time inspecting each vehicle you look at. In fact, you might even want to consider having a professional inspect the vehicle for body or engine issues and damage. If a seller is ever apprehensive about letting you have someone inspect the vehicle, you may want to think twice about the purchase.
CARFAX says these are some other items you may want to consider before signing on the dotted line:
Carefully consider the car’s condition, history, mileage, maintenance costs and related factors when negotiating a final purchase price. For example, Men’s Journal says the lower the mileage, the higher the value will be, but issues like rust should be taken into consideration.
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Traditional car insurance may not always be an available option, or the right option, for a classic car. Consider whether classic car insurance is an option for your collector vehicle. This type of specialty insurance can usually provide a greater reimbursement value for a classic car if your’e in an accident. However, it’s important to keep in mind that some classic car insurance policies may require you to limit the amount of miles you drive each year. When you find a classic car that you’re interested in purchasing, it’d be a good idea to consult with your insurance agent to talk about your options.
Buying and owning a classic car can be a fun experience, but requires some extra research and responsibility. Taking an informed approach to the purchase and maintenance of a classic vehicle may help you make a rewarding investment that you can enjoy for years to come.
The post Buying a Classic Car: A Beginner’s Guide appeared first on The Allstate Blog.
You may think your car’s headlights are in good shape as long as they power on when you need them. But, have you ever thought about headlight maintenance and how it can help improve their performance? From learning how to inspect your headlights to how to adjust them, these tips can help you ensure they’re properly lighting the road while you’re driving at night.
Are the lenses (the plastic covering) on your car’s headlights crystal clear, or do you see some fogginess and yellowing? Popular Mechanics says most manufacturers apply a UV protective film to the exterior of the lens to help protect the headlights. Over time, UV rays can damage this film and cause the lenses to appear foggy or yellow — this can contribute to impaired visibility while driving at night.
If your headlights are no longer clear, a headlight restoration kit may help clean them. The steps typically involve sanding and waxing, so be sure to follow the kit instructions to help ensure you clean the headlights properly. If you don’t see a big improvement, you may need to use another restoration kit or buy replacement headlights, says Popular Mechanics.
If your headlight lenses are clear but still seem to let off dim lighting, it may be time to replace the bulbs. Headlight bulbs naturally dim over time and need to be replace every few years, according to Consumer Reports. When choosing a bulb, The Family Handyman recommends selecting a long-life bulb if you do more night driving. These bulbs last about three times longer than standard bulbs.
Check your headlight bulbs to see if they are centered correctly and pointing towards the road. Over time, bulbs can become misaligned and end up pointing too high, too low or off to one side. Some cars have built-in bubble levelers to help you align the headlights, notes Popular Mechanics. These are typically located on the sides and top of the headlight unit. If you can see that the bubbles are not centered in the levelers, you’ll know the headlights need adjusting.
To check the aim of your bulbs manually, Popular Mechanics recommends following these steps:
If you find that you need to adjust the headlights, locate the adjusters and move them as needed — these are typically a bolt or screw on the sides or back of a headlight, says Popular Mechanics. You can also check your owner’s manual for details on adjusting your vehicle’s headlights.
If you have any concerns as you inspect or clean your headlights, consult with a mechanic or auto repair shop for advice. And remember, your headlights aren’t the only lighting components on your car that may need inspecting from time to time. Be sure to check your tail lights, brake lights and turn signal bulbs regularly and replace them as needed.
Originally published on April 18, 2012.
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If you’re in the market for a new car, you may be thinking about comfort, features and price. One thing you may also want to consider is the vehicle’s potential resale value. Here are a few things to keep in mind about your next car and its resale value.
If you eventually plan to sell your car or trade it in when you buy a new vehicle, its resale value will be a big factor in how much money you can get for it, says AutoGuide.com.
Also, if your car is totaled, your auto insurance provider would pay you the actual cash value of the car at the time of the accident (depending on your coverage). Actual cash value is determined using factors such as the typical resale value of the car at the time of the accident, previous damage and depreciation. So even if you don’t think you’ll be selling your car, you may want to consider how well it retains its value over time.
AutoGuide.com states simple supply and demand come into play with resale value. Sometimes certain vehicles are more popular than others. For instance, you may like a smaller coupe or a family sedan, but maybe SUVs and trucks have been in higher demand for a few years. If you get a car that’s too niche or simply not in high demand, it may be harder to sell it in the future.
It may be helpful to do some research on websites like Kelley Blue Book (KBB) or Edmunds to get an idea of which makes and models consistently have high resale value, too.
Simply put, neutral colors are more likely to help boost your car’s resale value. Sticking to colors such as silver, white, gray and black tend to be a safe bet, according to KBB. If you buy a car that’s an unusual, such as green or purple, fewer people might be interested when you go to sell it in a few years.
Roughly 2 percent of new cars sold have a manual transmission, says CARFAX. Most drivers are looking for a car with an automatic transmission, so you may want to avoid purchasing a new car with a stick shift.
A car’s value drops about 20 percent in the first year of ownership, according to CARFAX. Here are a few things you can do to help maintain its resale value.
If a car has either higher or lower mileage, it can affect its value, according to Cars.com. (CARFAX says around 10,000 miles per year is typical.) If a car has high mileage, it may not have as much life left as a similar car with lower mileage. However, Cars.com notes that a car with very low mileage may have problems from not being driven regularly or indicate it wasn’t driven much due to problems. You may want to limit the miles you add to your vehicle so the resale value doesn’t drop, but also make sure you use it regularly to help avoid mechanical issues.
Routine maintenance and making repairs when necessary go a long way toward keeping a car in good shape. CARFAX states that routine oil changes and replacing worn out parts can help keep a car from depreciating in value. Similarly, Cars.com says it’s also important to keep the car looking good — so make sure it’s fixed properly after an accident and that you keep the interior clean and fresh.
Warranties often transfer over to the new buyer, says Auto Trader. If your vehicle still has a warranty, you may want to sell the car before the contract runs out. That’s something buyers may find appealing, and you may be able to get a little more money for a car with a warranty. Check with the warranty provider to be sure it will transfer, but it could be a good selling point if it does.
If you’re looking for a new car, you may want to consider its future resale value as you shop. Choosing a car that will appeal to buyers down the road and keeping it in good shape may help you get the most for it when you’re ready to sell or trade it in.
Originally published on August 25, 2015.
The post Keeping Resale Value in Mind When Buying a Car appeared first on The Allstate Blog.
A vehicle title may seem like a simple piece of paper, but it’s an important one. If you lose or misplace your vehicle title, you’ll likely want to get a replacement title as soon as possible. Here are some tips to help you get started with the process.
Simply put, a vehicle title provides proof of ownership for a vehicle, says The Balance. If you own your car outright, the title will list your name as the legal owner of the vehicle. If you took out a loan to purchase the car, the title will likely list the name of the lienholder (the entity that financed the loan) and remain in their possession until the loan is paid off. It’s important to replace a lost vehicle title, as you cannot typically sell the vehicle without it.
Below are some tips to help you start a replacement request if you’ve lost or misplaced your title. Remember, the process can vary by state, so be sure to check your local requirements so you have the right information ready.
According to Road and Track Magazine, if the car is titled in your name, most states offer replacements through a local department of motor vehicles office. You may need to provide proof of ownership (such as documents for a previous loan on the vehicle) and pay a small fee to obtain the replacement. While requirements differ by state, you may also want to be prepared to provide your car’s vehicle identification number (VIN) and some personal information. For example, Wisconsin’s Department of Transportation states that you need your driver’s license or another form of identification, the last four digits of your Social Security number and an email address, among other information, to apply for a replacement title. Keep in mind that a new title will likely indicate that it is a replacement title.
If you’ve purchased a vehicle from a private seller, and the title was lost before you transferred it to your name, it may still be possible to obtain a replacement. According to Road and Track Magazine, one solution is to ask the previous owner to submit the replacement request (keep in mind that they’d likely need to pay a replacement title fee). Then, they could sign the duplicate title over to you when it arrives.
If that’s not possible, some states may allow you to obtain a title with a court order. To obtain a title this way, you’d first have to appear in court and have a judge award you ownership, says Road and Track Magazine. Applying for a title with a court order is typically successful, as long as the order includes some specific vehicle information (such as the car’s VIN and manufacturer), adds Road and Track Magazine. The magazine also states that you may need to a obtain a title through this process when you’ve inherited a vehicle from an estate and would like to sell it.
How quickly you can obtain a replacement title can also vary by state. To minimize fraud, for example, the Illinois Secretary of State does not issue replacement titles requested within 15 days of issuing an original title, or 30 days of issuing a duplicate title. You may also need to wait a few weeks to receive your title in the mail. However, some states (such as Michigan) offer same-day service if you need the new title right away.
Storing your vehicle title in a safe place may help minimize the risk of misplacing it. But if you do happen to lose your car’s title, remember to check your state’s requirements so you can be prepared when applying for a replacement.
The post How to Replace a Lost or Missing Vehicle Title appeared first on The Allstate Blog.
Tires that are not inflated properly may wear excessively, which is one of the reasons it’s important to know how and when to check your tire pressure. Cars.com says tires with the incorrect pressure may lead to lower gas mileage and negatively impact your car’s handling. Here’s how to check your tire pressure, from finding your vehicle’s recommended tire pressure to filling tires with air.
Your vehicle’s recommended tire pressure can typically be found on a sticker inside the driver’s door. It’s also usually listed in the owner’s manual, says Cars.com. Tire pressure is measured in pounds per square inch (psi).
You may also notice that the sidewall of the tires lists a tire pressure. Consumer Reports says this is the maximum tire pressure allowed. You should go with what’s listed on the door sticker or owner’s manual, as this is the ideal tire pressure for your vehicle.
You will need a tire pressure gauge, which you can find at most service stations or auto parts stores. Edmunds states you should check the pressure when the tires are cold, as the friction from driving causes them to heat up and affects the pressure. Check them first thing in the morning or, if you’re already driven the car, Consumer Reports recommends waiting at least three hours for the tires to cool down.
Once you have a tire gauge in hand, Edmunds says this is how to check your tire pressure:
If your tires are lower than the manufacturer’s recommendations, follow these steps from Edmunds to inflate the tires:
Tip: If you hear or feel air coming out of the hose nozzle while you’re trying to fill the tire, Cars.com says you should check that it is properly connected to the tire valve stem.
You don’t want to have tires that are overinflated, as this can lead to poor handling, says Cars.com. The Family Handyman notes that overinflated tires are more prone to skidding and hydroplaning.
If your tires are reading more than the recommeneded psi, Cars.com recommends the following steps to release air:
Tip: As you near the correct pressure, release smaller and smaller amounts of air until you get to the appropriate psi, says Cars.com.
Tire air pressure should be checked once a month using the same tire gauge, says The Family Handyman. Remember to check when the car has been parked for at least a few hours and the tires are “cold.” Tire pressure can vary 1-2 pounds per square inch (psi) for every 10-degree difference in ambient temperature, says Car Talk — the psi typically rises in the summer heat and drops when it’s cold outside. If you’re in the habit of checking your tires every month, you can adjust the pressure as it fluctuates throughout the seasons.
Car Talk recommends checking your tires regularly even when they look fine. Also, check them if you’ve run over a sharp object or hit a curb. It’s a good idea to have them checked when you bring your car in for routine service, says Car Talk.
Your tires are one of the most important parts of your car. They’re literally the place where the rubber meets the road. Regular care and maintenance can be essential to the safe and reliable performance of your vehicle.
Originally published April 28, 2017.
The post When and How to Check Your Tire Pressure appeared first on The Allstate Blog.
Perhaps you’ve inherited an old family vehicle. Or, you’re about to hand down an older car to a young driver. Maybe you want a lower-priced vehicle to save some money. If so, you’re not alone. I drive an older four-door with nearly 200,000 miles on the odometer, and it’s been through two teen drivers. But with a little work and preventive maintenance, it’s reliable and safe.
I also love that it’s paid for. Trust me, the lack of car payments adds a shocking amount of beauty to a vehicle. Forget 20-inch rims and a killer sound system. Focus on safety and reliability. Stash the cash that would go to car payments. In short order, you’ll be able to afford a much nicer vehicle.
If you’re buying a used car, set aside enough money to make this new-to-you vehicle safe and reliable. If you’ve budgeted $8,000 for a purchase, for example, restrict your search to vehicles well under $7,000. If you spend the entire $8,000 up front, you won’t have money in reserve in case you run into car trouble. If you’re handing off a vehicle to a young family member, remember that you want them to be safe. Your gift comes with huge strings if the brakes are worn out, the tires bald and the transmission is shot.
Now, to the makeover. Unless the previous owner was especially conscientious or kind, you’ll probably have to replace the tires, renew the brakes and make other repairs. Consider these tips for “making over” an older car.
You won’t even need to get your hands dirty to check the condition of the tires. Insert a quarter, Washington’s head down, into the most-shallow groove of the most-worn tire. If you can see the top of George’s wig, even modestly deep water can cause hydroplaning. A brand-new car tire begins life with at least 10/32 of an inch of tread (pickup and sport-utility vehicle tires have even deeper treads). If a tire can’t pass the quarter test, it has less than 4/32 of an inch of tread and, thus, is prone to hydroplaning — so it’s time to start tire shopping. If it’s at 2/32 of an inch, consider buying new tires as soon as possible.
Also, check the tires’ sidewall for an alphanumeric code that starts with “DOT.” The last four digits indicate the tire’s birth week: 2510 means the tire was built in the 25th week of 2010. Tires can die even if they haven’t gone far or done much. Regardless of tread depth, a tire that’s been on a car or sitting in the sun for six years has probably aged significantly. New tires on an old car are a safer combination than a newer car on bald tires.
Brake inspection is more difficult, but the task is far from impossible for a do-it-yourselfer. If you can open the hood, you can check the brake fluid reservoir. (The owner’s manual will show the location.) It’s bad if the fluid is dark, and terrible if the reservoir is below the “minimum” line. If the brake fluid is low or looks like it has gone bad, get the car into a mechanic as soon as possible.
Next, if you can change a tire, you can inspect the thickness of the brake pads. Remove a wheel, lower the car onto a jack stand (and NOT a cinder block or other unsafe substitute), and look at brake pad thickness and the condition of the rotors. Be thorough and inspect all four brakes. Drum brakes, found on the rear of many vehicles, are more difficult to inspect, but it’s a job well within the capability of most DIYers.
Advanced DIYers can also bleed the brakes. There are many videos on the web that explain how to do this, but contact a professional if you’re not comfortable tackling this one yourself. If the fluid is black and contains bits of rubber or rust, the vehicle needs a professional brake job as soon as possible.
It’s also a good idea to make sure your car isn’t leaking any fluids. To check for leaks, slide a slab of cardboard underneath your car and let it sit overnight. Except for water that drips from the air conditioner, the cardboard should be dry.
Any fluid that smells and feels like petroleum indicates there is a problem with the car that needs to be addressed.
Fluid that smells like pancake syrup (coolant) indicates a problem with the cooling system: This could range from a loose hose clamp to the rattling of a water pump that’s about to go kaput.
Coolant can come in various colors, including green, yellow, orange, red or even blue — and it’s important to make sure you replace your coolant with the proper type, as using the wrong kind can damage your car. Other fluids may indicate other issues. Mark where the cardboard sat, and the problem can be diagnosed by a mechanic.
Engine oil is another indicator of a car’s health. Look at the oil on the dipstick: Dark black is a bad sign. Also, check the underside of the oil filler cap: If it’s covered with baked-on crud, the previous owner rarely changed the oil. Those who can change oil should do so, or take it to a professional. If the oil comes out dark and lumpy, it’s possible to rescue this unfortunate situation with a series of 500-mile oil changes, but check with your mechanic for recommendations.
In the same manner, check the fluid on the automatic transmission dipstick. If it looks dark, it’s bad. Checking and renewing transmission fluid is best left to pros. Tell the technician that this is a new-to-you vehicle and you want a report on the condition of the fluid.
A new car battery will not only make sure the vehicle starts in cold weather but will also help the starter and alternator last longer. So, it may be a good idea to check out the car’s battery and consider replacing it. Check that the cables and terminals fit tightly and that there are no signs of corrosion, says Consumer Reports. If the connections are dirty or have signs of corrosion, disconnect the battery and use a wire brush to clean them.
If the previous few paragraphs were intimidating, take the vehicle to a professional mechanic for a thorough inspection. Even if you’re a pretty good DIY mechanic, have a professional inspect the steering gear, suspension and alignment. Worn or misaligned suspension will quickly wear out those new tires, and a suspension failure can be bad news.
The plastic that many vehicle manufacturers use often clouds over time. Sunlight and age can make headlight covers foggy, and the light shining through can be hazy. For my old beast, some lens polishing treatments did little to brighten the headlights, and they were soon back to opaque. Consider replacing the entire lens assemblies. New headlight assemblies will make the car look younger than it really is. More importantly, they’ll also help with visibility.
Auto racing organizations limit how long seat belts can be used on race cars. In highway vehicles, sun can deteriorate the belts and food can gum up the latching mechanism. I replaced the driver’s belts because they were frayed, and the latch didn’t immediately snap into place. You may want to consider having the seat belts replaced, especially if they are not working well.
Now that your older car is safe and healthy, you may want to make a few cosmetic upgrades if you have a few dollars left over. I found a new set of brand-correct wheel covers online for less than $100, including shipping, while generic covers can be had for $30 a set. They’re not as cool as $2,000 new wheels, but they still cut years from the car’s apparent age. Also, a serious detailing — which can include everything from shampooing the interior to hand waxing the exterior — is about $200 and will allow you to pretend you have a new ride — but without the monthly payments.
Whether you’re buying a used car or want to keep your older vehicle for a few more years, some preventive maintenance and a few upgrades can help keep it running well and looking good. With a few updates and upgrades, you can have a safe and reliable vehicle.
Originally posted on January 2, 2014.
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It’s time for a new car, and you’re wondering whether it is better to lease or buy. Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether you should lease or buy your next car.
Simply put, when you buy or finance a vehicle, you will own it once you have paid for it in full. When you lease a vehicle, you do not own it and have to return it when your lease term expires. Although, you may have the option to purchase the vehicle at the end of your lease, says Consumer Reports.
Typically, if you’re buying and financing a car, the monthly payments will be higher as you are paying for the full cost of the car plus interest on the loan, says Consumer Reports. Lease payments tend to be lower since you are not paying for the full price of the vehicle. You’re essentially paying for how much the car’s value depreciates while you drive it, according to Edmunds.
Consumer Reports notes that the initial costs of buying a vehicle include:
If you’re leasing a vehicle, according to Consumer Reports, you’ll typically have to pay:
To get an initial idea of whether leasing or buying a vehicle would be more expensive, you’ll need to add up all these costs and compare them.
From maintenance costs to monthly payments, there are other potential expenses to consider when deciding whether to lease or buy a vehicle.
You may want to consider maintenance expenses that come with leasing or owning a vehicle. With most leases, which are typically three years, the car will be under warranty for the duration of the lease, says Edmunds. (Standard auto warranties are 3 years or 36,000 miles, although some are longer, says Autoblog.com.) So, you’ll likely only be paying for routine maintenance, such as oil changes, with a leased vehicle. As a purchased vehicle goes beyond its warranty, you’ll typically have to pay out of pocket for any necessary repairs and routine maintenance.
When you lease a vehicle, the contract usually includes a maximum number of miles you can drive each year. If you exceed that mileage over the duration of your lease, Edmunds states that you will typically be charged 15 to 25 cents for each mile you’ve gone over the allowed mileage. Additionally, if there is excess wear and tear on the vehicle, you may incur fees at the end of your lease, says Edmunds.
While leasing a new car every few years can be appealing, consider if you want to be making monthly payments indefinitely. Consumer Reports notes that if you continue to lease cars, you’ll always be paying for a vehicle. If you buy a vehicle, however, those monthly payments stop once the car has been paid for, says Edmunds. If you keep the car after it’s paid off, you can then save that money or put it toward other expenses.
There are pros and cons to both leasing and buying a new car. By considering how either choice may affect your budget and other wants and needs, you’ll be better prepared to make the decision that’s right for you.
Originally posted on May 24, 2011.
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It used to be that a car approaching 100,000 miles was likely getting to the end of its life, but it’s becoming more common for cars to still be on the road with much higher mileage, says Money — adding that cars today are simply made better than they were even a decade ago. In 1995, a car’s lifespan was typically around 8 years, but this increased to 11 years by 2016, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Given that Americans drive an average of over 13,000 miles per year, according to the Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration, what can you do to help keep your vehicle on the road as the odometer climbs higher?
The secret to keeping your vehicle running well, even when the odometer hits 200,000 miles, often comes down to maintenance, says Money. If you’d like your vehicle to run for a long time, consider these tips for maintaining a high-mileage car.
The first step to having a car that will last a long time is to choose carefully when buying a new vehicle, says Car Talk. Go with a car manufacturer that has a good reputation and is known for its longevity. This may make it easier to get parts and keep up with maintenance as the vehicle gets older.
One way to keep a car in good shape is to stay on top of routine maintenance, says Consumer Reports. This includes changing the oil and filters regularly, getting the tires rotated on schedule and completing major service, such replacing the timing belt. Consumer Reports states skipping even one oil change can contribute to premature engine wear. Car Talk says another upside to routine maintenance is that your mechanic may be able to spot small issues before they become big problems.
The required maintenance and service intervals are typically listed in the owner’s manual. Car Talk notes that some owner’s manuals may stop listing service intervals at 120,000 miles. In that case, you should keep doing routine maintenance on your high-mileage vehicle, starting over at the beginning of the maintenance schedule.
You’re the one driving the car, so if something feels, sounds or even smells off, Kiplinger says you should trust your senses and take the car to a mechanic. And, do not ignore the check engine light or another dashboard warning light if it comes on.
Aggressive driving, hard stops and starts and rapid accelerating or decelerating may add unnecessary wear and tear to your car, according to Car Talk. Driving gently, including accelerating slowly and avoiding the need to slam on the brakes, may help prolong the life of a high-mileage car. On a cold day, Car Talk also suggests keeping the speed lower for the first few minutes of driving until the oil has warmed up.
Cleaning your car can help keep both the interior and exterior in good shape, says Consumer Reports. Giving it a good wash regularly helps remove contaminants and prevent rust, says Popular Mechanics. This can be especially important for the underside of your car that isn’t protected by paint — especially if your car is exposed to road salt during the winter. To help protect the paint, consider giving your car a good coat of wax. Vacuuming the interior of your car to remove dirt, sand and dust helps preserve the carpet and upholstery and prevent premature wear and tear.
Shorter trips can be hard on a car, allowing water to build up in the engine and exhaust system, says Car Talk. This may eventually lead to rust. Kiplinger says quick trips can also lead to engine sludge, as the engine never gets hot enough to burn off the fuel in the oil, the engine and the exhaust system. While a drive to the convenience store or to pick up your dry cleaning is a must, try to plan for some longer drives or combine all your errands so that your car has a chance to get to the optimal operating temperature, says Kiplinger.
Modern cars may be built to last a long time, but taking good care of your vehicle is one way to help it reach higher miles. Routine maintenance, driving gently and keeping your vehicle clean are a few of the ways you can help a high-mileage car keep running smoothly.
Originally published on January 9, 2017.
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