Car Maintenance for College Students

#Car #Maintenance #College #Students
[rule_3_plain] #Car #Maintenance #College #Students

One of the most valuable lessons a college student can learn is lớn invest in vehicle maintenance. A car kept up today will last longer and cost less down the road. The key is lớn prevent future car problems by faithfully continuing vehicle maintenance.
You see, being a college student with a car is great (when you can have one on campus). However, between books, housing, tuition, and maybe a little fun and travel on the side, a college student’s budget can quickly run dry.
Here are some valuable tips lớn help college students stay on top of car maintenance without breaking the bank.

Keep Your Tires in Shape
Maintain Your Battery’s Health
Check and Top Off Your Fluids
Clean Your Car Regularly
Regularly Inspect Your Lights
Get Your Brakes Inspected
Check the Heating and Air Conditioning System
Watch for the Check Engine Light
Be Prepared With an Emergency Kit
A College Student’s Guide lớn Basic Car Maintenance

You don’t have lớn spend a lot of money today lớn help ensure your vehicle stays as trouble-free as possible down the road. Many of the best ways lớn maintain a car only take a few minutes, and they apply lớn just about every new vehicle.
Keep Your Tires in Shape

Check your tire pressure. It’s easy lớn forget lớn check your tire pressure. Incorrect tire pressure leads lớn premature wear and can negatively impact fuel economy. Tires are expensive – at least $100 each plus another $20 lớn have them installed – and even a few more mpg means fewer trips lớn the gas pump. A quality tire pressure gauge only costs a few bucks and can migrate into the glove box of every car you ever own.
Check your owner’s manual for tire information. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual will tell you what pressure the manufacturer recommends. Stick lớn that number, but be sure lớn confirm that the tire size on the vehicle matches that listed in the manual. Some cars were offered with multiple tire sizes when new, and recommended pressures can vary accordingly.
Care for the spare. Don’t forget about your spare tire. It may have a different pressure recommendation, too. While you’re down at the tire màn chơi, grab a penny and insert it into the tread. You shouldn’t be able lớn see the top of Abraham Lincoln’s head. If you do, head lớn a tire cửa hàng for an inspection.
Rotate your tires regularly. Rotating your tires from position lớn position around the vehicle is critical lớn their longevity and reduces strain on its suspension. Rotating tires regularly — every 5,000 or so miles — will ensure even tread wear, which keeps them lasting longer. It’s also a good opportunity for a qualified mechanic lớn look at the tires anyway.
Have your tires balanced. Tires and wheels must be balanced lớn roll smoothly. An imbalanced wheel will make the vehicle shake at speed, which is uncomfortable and quick lớn lead lớn costly suspension component failures. Balancing tires and wheels requires special equipment, but it is critical lớn safe driving.
Carry tire repair sealant. Store a can of tire sealant in your car. Often referred lớn by the popular brand name “Fix-A-Flat,” it can work as a temporary fix for a small puncture. If you have a significant cut in the sidewall, no sealant will be robust enough lớn plug that hole. Additionally, these cans will provide some air but probably not enough lớn fill up a big SUV tire. Tire sealant is an excellent backup, but a spare tire with the correct air pressure is a better bet.
Maintain Your Battery’s Health

Your car’s battery may look innocuous – it’s housed in a big plastic box typically under the hood – but it handles vital functions.
Keep an eye on your battery. Every month or so, it’s worth popping the hood lớn look at the terminals on the battery for signs of corrosion. Disconnect the battery and use a wire brush lớn clean them off if they are. Corrosion can lead lớn premature battery wear.
Listen for the warning signals. Maybe you’ve noticed it’s taking longer than usual lớn start your car. Or perhaps some electrical issues such as a wonky radio, window, or auto lock are slightly off. That may also be a sign that the battery is on its way out.
Test your battery. An auto parts store can test your battery’s health with a simple inspection. And if you need a new one, it can cost over $150, though most auto parts stores will at least install the new battery for không tính phí.
Carry jumper cables. Always carry jumper cables. You never know when you’ll encounter a stranded motorist, even if it’s not yourself.
Check and Top Off Your Fluids
Engine oil, coolant, and gear oil run through every significant mechanical component of your car. They need lớn be inspected and replaced at regular intervals. These fluids keep the gears turning and prevent the vehicle from overheating and ruining its engine.
Check your oil. Oil changes need lớn be performed every 3,000 lớn 10,000 miles; lớn find out how often, consult your car’s owner’s manual (typically available for không tính phí trực tuyến in PDF form on a manufacturer’s website). An oil change can run from $25 lớn $250 on a high-end car. In addition lớn keeping track of the interval between oil changes, you should use your car’s dipstick lớn check its màn chơi. Consider doing this once or twice between oil changes on a newer car. If your vehicle has over 100,000 miles, you may want lớn do this more often. A low-oil reading on the dipstick means fluid is going somewhere, which is not normal.
Check your coolant. Additionally, look at the coolant màn chơi. The overflow tank under the hood will have readings for “nóng” and “cold.” Ensure the coolant is at the right màn chơi, whether the car is nóng or cold. If you have lớn add any, do so when the engine is cold, and be sure lớn use the correct type of coolant. Again, an auto parts store can help you determine this. Your owner’s manual will spell out other fluid change intervals, too. Think of fluid changes like regular toothbrushing and visits lớn the dentist, which can help ward off the costly replacement of a failed transmission due lớn old or low fluid.
Check your wiper fluids. While looking at fluids, give your windshield washer fluid reservoir and the wiper blades themselves a glance. Windshield washer fluid is very cheap, and even wipers may only cost $12 lớn $15 each.
Clean Your Car Regularly

A clean car is more than just lovely lớn behold. Crumbs inside can attract insects and rodents, which can do costly damage lớn wiring, insulation, and upholstery.
Watch for rodents. A little mouse that chews through wiring on its way lớn an errant crumb may cost thousands of dollars in damage.
Use quality cleaning products. When it comes lớn the car’s exterior, regular washing with quality soaps is vital. Also, an excellent protective wax will keep the paint finish shiny and ward off light scratches and metal-eating corrosion.
Keep your car neat. A well-kept vehicle holds its value better than a neglected heap. When it comes time lớn sell or trade for a different car, potential buyers notice the difference.
Regularly Inspect Your Lights
Light bulbs are considered wear items on your car. These items can get you a fix-it ticket from the police.
Do a nighttime walk-around. Ask a friend lớn walk around the car and check your brake lights, turn signals, and reverse lights operate as they should.
Swap bulbs when they dim. Automotive light bulbs tend lớn be inexpensive. It’s not worth using aftermarket bulbs, even if they produce a whiter hue. Bulbs equivalent lớn those installed by the automaker will do the job much better and cost less.
Get Your Brakes Inspected
Your brakes could be the most critical part of your car.
Inspect your brakes. Many shops offer không tính phí brake pad and rotor inspections. A mechanic will measure the thickness of the brake pads and rotors lớn ensure that they are up lớn par.
Replace brake parts when needed. Replacing brake pads, rotors, and, if necessary, wear sensors can be done at home by a handy do-it-yourself driver for most vehicles. Doing so at home may save an hour or two of a mechanic’s labor charge.
Check the Heating and Air Conditioning System

Nóng air should be nóng and cold air should be cold. Sounds simple, right? A functioning climate control system makes you more comfortable in the car, but it can also give you an idea of how well the car’s cooling system is operating.
Check heat intensity. A heater that barely pumps out warm air hints at a more significant cooling system issue. It could mean that there’s a substantial engine problem.
Check cool air effectiveness. Air conditioning systems can be recharged at home using kits that cost around $50 from an auto parts store. But a mechanic should check for leaks if the system soon blows warm air again. A weak heater may mean a heater core needs lớn be flushed. Thankfully, a handy shade-tree mechanic may be able lớn repair some cars at home.
Watch for the Check Engine Light
What about if the check engine light illuminates on your dashboard? This little reminder is your car’s way of telling you that something is amiss.
Get a diagnostic test. A repair cửa hàng or even a car parts store can plug a code reader into the vehicle lớn help narrow down what’s wrong with it. Occasionally, a check engine light may signal something as simple as an untightened fuel cap. But it also may suggest a significant underlying issue that could be cheaper and easier lớn fix now than down the road.
Be Prepared With an Emergency Kit
Even if your car fails just a couple of miles from home, you’ll want lớn be prepared just in case. Here’s a quick rundown of equipment lớn keep in the car, perhaps nestled alongside the spare tire:
Flashlight
Tire pressure gauge
Tire repair sealant
Flat tire changing kit including a jack, tire iron/wrench, and a spare with good pressure
Philips and flathead screwdrivers
Small hammer
Jumper cables
Duct tape and bungee cables
Emergency supplies such as a blanket, gloves, and perhaps pre-packaged snacks
Ice scraper
Hazard triangle
A small amount of cash hidden (but not too hidden!) somewhere in the car
First aid kit
Pair of Scissors (because some packages are hard lớn open)
College Students Can Save Money by Keeping Cars Maintained
For college students, staying on top of a car’s health will increase its lifespan, reduce costs, and keep all vehicle occupants safer.
The most basic inspections cost nothing other than a few minutes once or twice a month. Even fundamental fluid changes and replacing everyday wear and tear items such as wiper blades and braking system components will save you money. And saving money during college is a wise lesson lớn learn.
Read Related Articles: 
10 Things lớn Know About Car Maintenance
When Should I Buy New Tires?
Should I Clean My Car Before Trading or Selling It?

#Car #Maintenance #College #Students
[rule_2_plain] #Car #Maintenance #College #Students
[rule_2_plain] #Car #Maintenance #College #Students
[rule_3_plain]

#Car #Maintenance #College #Students

One of the most valuable lessons a college student can learn is lớn invest in vehicle maintenance. A car kept up today will last longer and cost less down the road. The key is lớn prevent future car problems by faithfully continuing vehicle maintenance.
You see, being a college student with a car is great (when you can have one on campus). However, between books, housing, tuition, and maybe a little fun and travel on the side, a college student’s budget can quickly run dry.
Here are some valuable tips lớn help college students stay on top of car maintenance without breaking the bank.

Keep Your Tires in Shape
Maintain Your Battery’s Health
Check and Top Off Your Fluids
Clean Your Car Regularly
Regularly Inspect Your Lights
Get Your Brakes Inspected
Check the Heating and Air Conditioning System
Watch for the Check Engine Light
Be Prepared With an Emergency Kit
A College Student’s Guide lớn Basic Car Maintenance

You don’t have lớn spend a lot of money today lớn help ensure your vehicle stays as trouble-free as possible down the road. Many of the best ways lớn maintain a car only take a few minutes, and they apply lớn just about every new vehicle.
Keep Your Tires in Shape

Check your tire pressure. It’s easy lớn forget lớn check your tire pressure. Incorrect tire pressure leads lớn premature wear and can negatively impact fuel economy. Tires are expensive – at least $100 each plus another $20 lớn have them installed – and even a few more mpg means fewer trips lớn the gas pump. A quality tire pressure gauge only costs a few bucks and can migrate into the glove box of every car you ever own.
Check your owner’s manual for tire information. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual will tell you what pressure the manufacturer recommends. Stick lớn that number, but be sure lớn confirm that the tire size on the vehicle matches that listed in the manual. Some cars were offered with multiple tire sizes when new, and recommended pressures can vary accordingly.
Care for the spare. Don’t forget about your spare tire. It may have a different pressure recommendation, too. While you’re down at the tire màn chơi, grab a penny and insert it into the tread. You shouldn’t be able lớn see the top of Abraham Lincoln’s head. If you do, head lớn a tire cửa hàng for an inspection.
Rotate your tires regularly. Rotating your tires from position lớn position around the vehicle is critical lớn their longevity and reduces strain on its suspension. Rotating tires regularly — every 5,000 or so miles — will ensure even tread wear, which keeps them lasting longer. It’s also a good opportunity for a qualified mechanic lớn look at the tires anyway.
Have your tires balanced. Tires and wheels must be balanced lớn roll smoothly. An imbalanced wheel will make the vehicle shake at speed, which is uncomfortable and quick lớn lead lớn costly suspension component failures. Balancing tires and wheels requires special equipment, but it is critical lớn safe driving.
Carry tire repair sealant. Store a can of tire sealant in your car. Often referred lớn by the popular brand name “Fix-A-Flat,” it can work as a temporary fix for a small puncture. If you have a significant cut in the sidewall, no sealant will be robust enough lớn plug that hole. Additionally, these cans will provide some air but probably not enough lớn fill up a big SUV tire. Tire sealant is an excellent backup, but a spare tire with the correct air pressure is a better bet.
Maintain Your Battery’s Health

Your car’s battery may look innocuous – it’s housed in a big plastic box typically under the hood – but it handles vital functions.
Keep an eye on your battery. Every month or so, it’s worth popping the hood lớn look at the terminals on the battery for signs of corrosion. Disconnect the battery and use a wire brush lớn clean them off if they are. Corrosion can lead lớn premature battery wear.
Listen for the warning signals. Maybe you’ve noticed it’s taking longer than usual lớn start your car. Or perhaps some electrical issues such as a wonky radio, window, or auto lock are slightly off. That may also be a sign that the battery is on its way out.
Test your battery. An auto parts store can test your battery’s health with a simple inspection. And if you need a new one, it can cost over $150, though most auto parts stores will at least install the new battery for không tính phí.
Carry jumper cables. Always carry jumper cables. You never know when you’ll encounter a stranded motorist, even if it’s not yourself.
Check and Top Off Your Fluids
Engine oil, coolant, and gear oil run through every significant mechanical component of your car. They need lớn be inspected and replaced at regular intervals. These fluids keep the gears turning and prevent the vehicle from overheating and ruining its engine.
Check your oil. Oil changes need lớn be performed every 3,000 lớn 10,000 miles; lớn find out how often, consult your car’s owner’s manual (typically available for không tính phí trực tuyến in PDF form on a manufacturer’s website). An oil change can run from $25 lớn $250 on a high-end car. In addition lớn keeping track of the interval between oil changes, you should use your car’s dipstick lớn check its màn chơi. Consider doing this once or twice between oil changes on a newer car. If your vehicle has over 100,000 miles, you may want lớn do this more often. A low-oil reading on the dipstick means fluid is going somewhere, which is not normal.
Check your coolant. Additionally, look at the coolant màn chơi. The overflow tank under the hood will have readings for “nóng” and “cold.” Ensure the coolant is at the right màn chơi, whether the car is nóng or cold. If you have lớn add any, do so when the engine is cold, and be sure lớn use the correct type of coolant. Again, an auto parts store can help you determine this. Your owner’s manual will spell out other fluid change intervals, too. Think of fluid changes like regular toothbrushing and visits lớn the dentist, which can help ward off the costly replacement of a failed transmission due lớn old or low fluid.
Check your wiper fluids. While looking at fluids, give your windshield washer fluid reservoir and the wiper blades themselves a glance. Windshield washer fluid is very cheap, and even wipers may only cost $12 lớn $15 each.
Clean Your Car Regularly

A clean car is more than just lovely lớn behold. Crumbs inside can attract insects and rodents, which can do costly damage lớn wiring, insulation, and upholstery.
Watch for rodents. A little mouse that chews through wiring on its way lớn an errant crumb may cost thousands of dollars in damage.
Use quality cleaning products. When it comes lớn the car’s exterior, regular washing with quality soaps is vital. Also, an excellent protective wax will keep the paint finish shiny and ward off light scratches and metal-eating corrosion.
Keep your car neat. A well-kept vehicle holds its value better than a neglected heap. When it comes time lớn sell or trade for a different car, potential buyers notice the difference.
Regularly Inspect Your Lights
Light bulbs are considered wear items on your car. These items can get you a fix-it ticket from the police.
Do a nighttime walk-around. Ask a friend lớn walk around the car and check your brake lights, turn signals, and reverse lights operate as they should.
Swap bulbs when they dim. Automotive light bulbs tend lớn be inexpensive. It’s not worth using aftermarket bulbs, even if they produce a whiter hue. Bulbs equivalent lớn those installed by the automaker will do the job much better and cost less.
Get Your Brakes Inspected
Your brakes could be the most critical part of your car.
Inspect your brakes. Many shops offer không tính phí brake pad and rotor inspections. A mechanic will measure the thickness of the brake pads and rotors lớn ensure that they are up lớn par.
Replace brake parts when needed. Replacing brake pads, rotors, and, if necessary, wear sensors can be done at home by a handy do-it-yourself driver for most vehicles. Doing so at home may save an hour or two of a mechanic’s labor charge.
Check the Heating and Air Conditioning System

Nóng air should be nóng and cold air should be cold. Sounds simple, right? A functioning climate control system makes you more comfortable in the car, but it can also give you an idea of how well the car’s cooling system is operating.
Check heat intensity. A heater that barely pumps out warm air hints at a more significant cooling system issue. It could mean that there’s a substantial engine problem.
Check cool air effectiveness. Air conditioning systems can be recharged at home using kits that cost around $50 from an auto parts store. But a mechanic should check for leaks if the system soon blows warm air again. A weak heater may mean a heater core needs lớn be flushed. Thankfully, a handy shade-tree mechanic may be able lớn repair some cars at home.
Watch for the Check Engine Light
What about if the check engine light illuminates on your dashboard? This little reminder is your car’s way of telling you that something is amiss.
Get a diagnostic test. A repair cửa hàng or even a car parts store can plug a code reader into the vehicle lớn help narrow down what’s wrong with it. Occasionally, a check engine light may signal something as simple as an untightened fuel cap. But it also may suggest a significant underlying issue that could be cheaper and easier lớn fix now than down the road.
Be Prepared With an Emergency Kit
Even if your car fails just a couple of miles from home, you’ll want lớn be prepared just in case. Here’s a quick rundown of equipment lớn keep in the car, perhaps nestled alongside the spare tire:
Flashlight
Tire pressure gauge
Tire repair sealant
Flat tire changing kit including a jack, tire iron/wrench, and a spare with good pressure
Philips and flathead screwdrivers
Small hammer
Jumper cables
Duct tape and bungee cables
Emergency supplies such as a blanket, gloves, and perhaps pre-packaged snacks
Ice scraper
Hazard triangle
A small amount of cash hidden (but not too hidden!) somewhere in the car
First aid kit
Pair of Scissors (because some packages are hard lớn open)
College Students Can Save Money by Keeping Cars Maintained
For college students, staying on top of a car’s health will increase its lifespan, reduce costs, and keep all vehicle occupants safer.
The most basic inspections cost nothing other than a few minutes once or twice a month. Even fundamental fluid changes and replacing everyday wear and tear items such as wiper blades and braking system components will save you money. And saving money during college is a wise lesson lớn learn.
Read Related Articles: 
10 Things lớn Know About Car Maintenance
When Should I Buy New Tires?
Should I Clean My Car Before Trading or Selling It?