I must confess that before I bought "Baby," my Super White 2011 Camry LE, my vehicles frequently resembled a purse on wheels. My sons would have to remind me that I had gone several thousand miles over the recommended oil change interval. I owned a series of "disposable" cars that I bought for $400-$500 and ran them till they dropped.
Suffice it to say that I've learned a thing or two in the last couple of years.
We women are so strong and capable in so many areas of our lives. Yet there still seems to be a gap when it comes to cars. Many of the women I meet still feel intimidated when it comes to buying cars and when it comes to maintaining their cars. So from time to time, I'll be passing along some tips especially for us girls.
Believe me, if I can get a handle on it, anyone can.
I found this useful article at http://www.womens-finance.com/auto/carmaintenance.shtml
I put my two cents worth in italics:
Easy Car Maintenance for Women
NAPSI) - Women are a driving force behind more than 80 percent of all car purchases. Yet over one-third of women experience "auto" phobia-fearing anything that has to do with servicing cars. However, there's no need to stall when it comes to servicing your car. It's less challenging if you follow these basic maintenance tips:
Maintain Fluids
There are six main fluids to check and maintain in accordance with your vehicle manufacturer's scheduled maintenance (Maggie says: Most of these are in clear receptacles with a yellow lid.)
1. Washer fluid. Use a commercial windshield washer solvent.
2. Brake fluid. Most brake fluids absorb moisture, causing fluid deterioration and contamination over time. It's generally recommended that it be flushed during brake work.
3. Engine oil. Engine oil is generally changed once every three months or 3,000 miles, whichever comes first. (Maggie says: This is old school. Most cars now have a 5,000 miles oil change interval-- 7,500-10,000 for some engines with synthetic oil. Check the owners manual or call me)
4. Radiator/Engine Coolant/Antifreeze. This should be changed according to your owner's manual.
5. Transmission fluid. Most vehicle manufacturers suggest changing this fluid every 15,000-30,000 miles.
6. Power steering fluid. Low fluid can mean the loss of power steering. Most manufacturers don't have a scheduled maintenance for this fluid.
Check Your Tires
Spend a few minutes each month checking your tires:
1. Inflate. Check your owner's manual or inside the driver-side doorjamb for inflation guidelines specific to your car. Tires can lose one psi (pound per square inch) per month under normal conditions. Use a tire gauge for an accurate reading.
2. Rotate. Feel the tread of your tires. If you feel high and low areas or very smooth areas, you may have irregular tread wear. Proper tire rotation, alignment and balancing will help your tires last longer and provide a smoother, safer ride. For maximum mileage, rotate tires every 5,000 miles. (Maggie says: If you bought your car at Lakeland Automotive, your tire rotations are free for the life of your car.)
3. Evaluate. Be on the lookout for damage to your tires. If your tire looks worn or damaged, take it to a service center and have it checked out immediately.
Use Your Senses
Trust yourself and what you see, smell and hear.
1. Look. Watch for leaks under the car, or steam or smoke (!) coming from the engine. Pay attention to dashboard warning lights. (Maggie says: Most owners manuals or quick reference guides have a key to the indicator lights. When in doubt, call me)
2. Smell. Many fluids have their own unique odor. If you smell something unusual, you may have a leak.
3. Listen. Describe noises to your service technician as accurately as possible. Observe as many things as you can: when it's happening, how fast you're going, whether you're applying the brakes or gas, turning left or right, is the car hot or cold, etc. (Maggie says: Frequently, when your car gets in to the shop it behaves like a perfect angel and your technician can't figure out what you're talking about. Ask your tech to go for a ride with you so you can show him/her exactly what problem/noise you're experiencing)
Stay Educated
Keep a copy of your vehicle manufacturer's scheduled maintenance program handy. Firestone Tire & Service Centers offer these maintenance schedules for free and host free Car Care Clinics at locations around the country. Visit www.MasterCareUSA.com to find a clinic in your area or to schedule a service appointment. (Maggie says: This is also available at Edmunds.com)
(Maggie says: Don't be afraid to ask questions. You don't expect us to be experts in your field, we don't expect you to be an automotive expert. There are no stupid questions...trust me, I've already asked all the stupid questions. If you don't like the way you're being treated, ask to see the customer relations person...Or call me. I've got your back.)
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