repair to brakes repair, transmission repair or engine repair. Various car repair needs can add up to quite a large expense, though, and any means of minimizing such car repairs would indeed be very welcome especially in times of financial crisis. One way to do this would be to implement automotive diagnostic and maintenance procedures, some of which you can do yourself even without the help of your auto service mechanic. Of course, you still need your trustworthy auto service mechanic for more complex automotive diagnostic and maintenance procedures and, later, for the inevitable car repairs. This to-do list will help you make the most of each of these stages.

Step one is always reading the vehicle’s owner’s manual. In fact, you should learn everything it has to say about your vehicle and, since you could not possibly memorize everything, you should keep the manual in a safe but readily accessible place. All of the required automotive maintenance procedures for your vehicle, as recommended by its manufacturer, are in the owner’s manual. The frequency schedule of every process is also indicated there. You should comply with these instructions faithfully.

Certain automotive diagnostic procedures can and should be done by the vehicle owner because you are the one who knows your vehicle best and how it behaves under normal conditions. You are, therefore, also the best judge of any changes in the car’s performance. This includes its handling, acceleration, deceleration, steering and braking. Changes in gas mileage and fluid levels are also relevant so gauge readings should be taken daily. The car’s tires, hoses and belts should be regularly inspected for wear and tear or damage. All kinds of weird noises, unusual odors, vibrations while driving or leaks should likewise be considered as warning signs for problems.  Read more...