CAR CARE TIPS BLOG

Vehicles have never been inexpensive to purchase but neglecting vehicle maintenance will cost you even more money. A smart driver who has invested a good sum of money in a vehicle purchase will definitely take the time, effort and expense to take care of preventative vehicle maintenance. Keeping this in mind, there are several things you should know how to make your car last longer:

If you have scheduled brake service for your vehicle on a regular basis, it is unlikely you will experience emergency brake failure. Unfortunately, even with routine service, brakes can wear out and fail, losing their ability to perform.

By knowing the issues that cause brakes to fail will help you understand how to take care of them. Here are some of the more common causes of brake problems:

• Loss Of Brake Fluid Pressure -- If there is any type of leak in the brake line, caliper or wheel cylinder, there could be insufficient pressure in the brake line for the brakes to work properly.
• Loss of Air Pressure – If the brake pedal goes all the way to the floor when it is depressed, it means the air pressure in the brake line could be the problem.
• Rusty Brake Line -- A rusty steel brake line is something that can be found in older vehicles, especially if they have been exposed to years of moisture as well as salt on the roads. Once the line rusts, brake fluid can begin to leak.
• Leak in ABS Modulator – If rust or dirt gets into the brake’s ABS modulator, it makes it difficult for its spring-loaded valve to close properly.
• Power Brake Booster – If the power brake booster is faulty, the brake pedal will have to be pressed all the way to the floor to stop the car.
• Water In Brake Fluid -- When brake fluid reaches a high temperature, water will vaporize into steam and the braking motion will not be transmitted to the vehicle’s wheels.

Winter’s over, spring is here and summer is just around the corner! Your car will need some extra attention and service as summer's heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic will take their toll on your vehicle. Add the effects of last winter, and you could be poised for a breakdown. You can lessen the odds of mechanical failure through timely car service and maintenance.

The service tips below will more than prepare your vehicle to provide you with dependable and safe transportation throughout the hot summer months: