Why You Can't Be Blasé About Your Vehicle's Mechanical Condition

Sceptics say that time can't be managed and you may be in complete agreement with them. After all, there are not enough hours in your particular day to fit in everything that you are responsible for, and you wish you could invent some more. However, you may be overlooking some tasks that you really should accommodate, as nobody else will do these for you and they are very important. On the top of this list should be the operational condition of your car, especially if it's been a long time since you actually took it in for a complete service. What should you prioritise?

Paying Attention

In Australia, there is no law that says you need to take any vehicle in for an inspection on an annual basis, unlike other countries around the world. While this may mean less inconvenience for you, it doesn't mean that you can simply overlook the overall condition of the vehicle.

Alignment

Do you find that your car or truck is pulling to one side (even if slightly) during certain driving conditions? This will be due to an alignment problem that can also manifest itself as a vibration or a rattle at certain speeds. Have a look at the condition of your front tyres to see if there is any uneven wear, as this is also a tell-tale sign of poor alignment. Left unattended, this can become worse and could lead to a failure, so it needs urgent attention.

Tyres

You should also get into the habit of checking the air pressure in your tyres on a weekly basis and as you do so, to inspect them for any cuts, abrasions or bulges. Underinflated tyres can cause overheating, degradation and ultimately, a blowout.

Brakes

Are your brakes starting to squeal when you apply them? These noises are not normal and are meant to alert you to a problem. Usually, it means that the brake pads have worn down past a certain point and are now beginning to grind against the brake disc itself. If you leave this go on much longer, then you will have to get those discs replaced as well.

Air

You should be checking (and potentially changing) air filters that are located throughout the vehicle. In particular, the filter that controls the air used in the engine's combustion process can have a significant effect on performance and your cost of motoring. The cabin filter also needs to be checked from time to time to make sure that you are not breathing contaminated air as you drive along.

Oil

Don't forget that clean oil in good condition is crucial if the vehicle's major components are going to last as long as they should. In the worst-case scenario, one of these key parts could fail and this could result in a significant bill.

A Compromise

If you really don't have the time to check these items yourself, book the vehicle in to a qualified mechanic for an afternoon of car servicing while you are at work.