Vehicle Maintenance: What are the True Facts?

What are the true facts about car maintenance? Most DIY'ers enjoy passing around information that could be costly and potentially dangerous if not properly researched. Rather than spend a few extra dollars for peace of mind and safety, many vehicle owners will try to take care of some car maintenance jobs themselves.

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Here's the truth about five common vehicle maintenance myths from the auto professionals:

Myth #1: You can visually see if tires have the correct air pressure.

Tires can lose up to one pound of pressure per month. Air pressure can be as low as much as 10 psi but yet not show any outward signs. Make sure to have the air pressure checked on a regular basis. Under-inflated tires wear out faster and your vehicle uses more gas as a result of the increased rolling resistance.

Myth #2: An air filter doesn't need to be changed unless it looks dirty.

Even if an air filter looks okay, it can be clogged. Filters trap dirt so small that it cannot be seen. If it is clogged, the engine can't breathe. Check your owner's manual for the vehicle maintenance schedule for replacing an air filter. It is easier and less expensive than an engine repair.

Myth #3: Brake fluid never has to be changed.

Brake fluid should be clear and transparent. It has the ability to absorb water from the air so that over time this moisture can cause damage to the brake system, and dangerously lower the boiling point of the brake fluid. Cloudy fluid means it's time for a change.

Myth #4: Bright green engine coolant is still effective.

The chemicals in engine coolant can become corrosive over time. Unseen and expensive damage can be occurring in the cooling system even though the fluid looks okay. To prevent overheated engines leading to expensive engine repairs, make sure the engine coolant is clean.

Myth #5: For premium performance, use premium gas.

Why pay more money for premium fuel unless your vehicle's engine was designed and built to use extra octane. Nowadays, there are fewer high performance cars and trucks that actually require premium fuel. Unless the owner's manual recommends premium fuel, just keep using regular.

A tip to remember: When in doubt about your vehicle's performance or components, consult a trustworthy auto mechanic for advice on vehicle maintenance.

For professional vehicle maintenance, contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Finish the Summer Smoothly with Quality Engine Service!

Gearing up for that last summer road trip? For smooth driving ahead, make sure you have kept your vehicle maintenance up-to-date, including an engine repair service. This is the way to prevent a major engine rebuild down the road. The last thing you want to experience on your summer vacation is a breakdown, resulting in a costly engine repair. 

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Many vehicle drivers ignore the fact that hot weather makes existing problems worse. So, for smooth summer traveling, follow this road map for vehicle maintenance:

#1 – Read your owner's manual - Know the recommended service schedules for your vehicle.

#2 - Engine Service – Replace dirty filters air, fuel, PCV, etc. Take care of any problems (such as hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) before they develop into bigger problems.

#3 – Oil Change – Change the oil and filter as specified in your manual. If the oil change interval will occur during your road trip, make sure to take care of it before you head down the road.

#4 - Tires – Make sure the tires have the correct amount of air pressure, that the tread is sufficient for driving on hot roads, and that the tires are rotated if necessary. Don't forget to check the spare, and be sure the jack is in the trunk.

#5 - Windshield Wipers – Replace old wiper blades and stock up on windshield washer solvent. Be prepared for those sudden summer rain storms.

#6 – Battery – Hot weather kills batteries, so have the charging power of your battery checked, corrosion cleaned from posts and cable connections, connections retightened, and the fluid level checked.

#7 – Lights – Make sure all lights (outside and inside) are working and that the lenses are clean.

#8 - Exhaust System – Inspect for exhaust leaks in the muffler, trunk and floorboards.

#9 – Cooling System – Check the level and condition of the coolant. Have a flush and refill as necessary. Also inspect the tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses.

#10 – Emergencies -- Carry a first-aid kit, blanket, flares, energy snacks, water, and a cell phone.

Think you're headed for an engine rebuild? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information about our engine repair, automotive services, and vehicle detailing. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.