From The Straits Times    |

Your car is one of your most expensive purchases; with COE prices shooting through the roof, you’ll want to treat it right and hang on to your car for longer. A well-maintained car costs less to operate, and maintains its residual value longer.

We ask technical advisor Sim Boon Keng for tips on the everyday things you can do so your car runs on and on and on…

Expert tips on car maintenance: These will help you save on fuel
expenses and keep your vehicle in good condition. Image: Corbis

1. WARM UP THE ENGINE
Do this for one or two minutes at a cold start (overnight or prolonged parking). This allows the engine to run more smoothly and avoids possible deterioration.

 2. DO NOT ACCELERATE INTERMITTENTLY OR TOO HARD
For automatic transmissions: avoid unnecessary gear shifting – from D to D2 etc – unless you are on a steep slope. For manual transmissions: don’t depress the clutch while accelerating.

3. CHECK THE AIR-CON SYSTEM ANNUALLY
Topping up the coolant can prolong the lifespan of the air-conditioning compressor.

4. AVOID HARD BRAKING OR BRAKING WHILE ACCELERATING
This includes the occasions where you do not fully release the handbrake lever. Avoid such bad braking habits if you can. This will reduce deterioration of brake pads, linings and rotors.

5. KEEP FLUIDS AT OPTIMUM LEVELS
Check oil and coolant levels regularly so you can identify possible leakages early on. Check conventional battery water level regularly, and use only distilled water to top it up. Regular oil changes prevent the build-up of harmful deposits that make internal components work harder and compromise on fuel economy.

6. TURN OFF THE AIR-CON FOR FIVE MINUTES BEFORE STOPPING THE ENGINE
Turn off the fan blower too, while you’re at it. This removes moisture accumulated on the cooling coil that causes mould and odour.

7. USE HIGHER OCTANE UNLEADED PETROL
It reduces “engine knocking” and provides a smoother ride.

8. WASH THE CAR WEEKLY AND WAX IT MONTHLY
This repels moisture and reduces the weathering effect on the paint job. Treat deep scratches promptly before rust sets in. Clean bird droppings immediately as they are acidic and will erode the paint. Clean the insides too.

9. PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR TYRES
Use the right gauge for your set of tyres; don’t over- or under-inflate them – this decreases their lifespan and compromises safety. Balance and rotate tyres regularly; replace them when the thread becomes shallow or reaches the minimum safety mark. A good indication is when the cabin becomes noisier while driving.

10. STICK TO REGULAR MAINTENANCE
Small problems turn into large problems, and even larger repair bills when you skip a routine check-up. The recommended schedule is every six months or every 10,000km travelled, whichever comes first.

Warning signs to watch out for, during your routine check-up:

  • Unusual noises: Once a month, drive without the music and listen for unusual noises. If there’s an odd vibration or sound, it may be time to get the car checked.
  • Excessive screeching: Any excessive screeching when you brake – even if lightly – means your brake pads are worn. Replace them quickly, or risk damaging your rotors – and having to purchase an expensive new set.
  • Windshield cracks: Fix small cracks in the windshield quickly. These will only spread out over time.
  • Dashboard warnings: Do not ignore dashboard warnings. Don’t drive when any of the red indicators are lit; send the vehicle for servicing immediately. 

Sim Boon Leng is a technical advisor of Star Automotive Centre. The automotive centre offers accident repairs, car servicing and other services for automotive maintenance services. Star is located at 249 Jalan Boon Lay, (S) 619523, tel: 6515-3011 and No.5 Ubi Close, (S) 408605; Tel: 6846 3855; operating hours 8am to 6pm on Mondays to Fridays, 8am to 5pm on Saturdays. The centre is closed on sundays and on public holidays. For roadside assistance, call their 24 hours toll-free hotline 1800-800-7827 or go to their website (www.star.com.sg) for more information.

This article was originally published in SimplyHer April 2011.