The time has come… your teenager is now licensed to drive. Take a deep breathe. As we all know, driving comes with a host of responsibilities, and learning to properly maintain and look after a car is a very important one. Teens are usually only concerned with getting a car, but there’s plenty of upkeep that goes along with it.
Here are some useful tips to teach your teen when it comes to car maintenance:
Get the Oil Changed
Motor oil is used to lubricate the moving parts of automobile engines. It prevents the metal surfaces from grinding against each other and becoming worn or damaged from friction. Oil also prevents corrosion, helps cool the engine and helps keep the engine clean by soaking up the byproducts of combustion, such as silicon oxide.
Be sure to check the car owner’s manual for recommended kilometers between oil changes and specific recommendations pertaining to your vehicle and driving habits.
Battery
One of the most common reasons for vehicle ‘no-starts’ is a dead battery. Be sure to have the battery tested on a regular basis (during an oil change is a good time) to avoid being stranded and the expensive cost of having the car towed.
Windshield Wipers
It’s a critical safety concern that your car’s wipers provide you with the cleanest windshield possible, especially given that we live in a rainy climate. Rubber deteriorates over time, preventing full contact with the windshield. If your wipers are unable to keep the windshield clear, it’s time for new ones (available at EZ Lube).
Tires
First of all, make sure the tires have good tread. One way to measure the tread is to check the tread wear indicator located less than an inch from the bottom of the tread groove. When the tread wears down to become even with this level, the tire should be replaced.
Proper tire pressure is critical for fuel efficiency, safety and tread life. An over inflated tire can pop on the road if the temperature is too high. One way to check for an over inflated tire is by checking if the wear is across the centre of the tread. An under-inflated tire will wear on both outer edges of the tire. Check the tires or car owner’s manual for appropriate pressure levels.
Monitor Gauges
Keep an eye on the gas level and always drive with a sufficient amount of gas in the tank (more than half full). Pay attention to the “check engine” light and read the car owner’s manual to become familiar with the different lights that may illuminate for services.