Regular checks and tune ups is a must for any vehicle. This ensures your car of a longer life, which means you won't have to spend your money in buying a new one. Of course, the brand of the car is a separate factor; however, any decent car owner should know the basic ways of maintaining and keeping your car in good shape. A visit to the auto repair shop twice a year to get a tune up is recommended.

BRAKES

New and used car brake fluid is essential to proper braking and should be flushed at least once every two years. You can actually do this on your own but if you're unsure, always seek the help of a professional auto repair shop. If your brake pedal feels noticeably softer or tougher than usual; or if it sinks to the floor when stepped on, that indicates your car has a brake fluid leak or a defective master cylinder. This needs to be checked immediately.

Air bubbles within the brakes' line can also cause problems such as overheating and foaming of the brake fluid. If you can't remember when you last had your car brakes checked, have it done soon.

TUNE-UPS

In the past, car maintenance was required every 15,000 miles or so. Checking and adjusting the points and ignition timing needed to be done often; and spark plugs and fuel filters never lasted much more than 15,000 miles.

Today, point ignitions and leaded gas are a thing of the past. Tune-ups on today's new cars are only necessary every 50,000 miles or so and involve replacing the spark plugs, wire set, possibly the fuel filter, the air filter, and hooking the car up to an engine diagnostic system to diagnose problems before they become critical. Auto service vendors will need you to leave your car for at least 3 to 4 hours so do this on a weekend if you're a busy person.

WHEELS AND TIRES

Rotating one's tires and wheels is recommended every 5000 miles. Rotating your wheels makes sure your vehicle's steering capacity remains in good shape. While you do this, you can also have the pressure of your tires checked to make sure they are not too hard or lacking in air. Note that the right amount of tire pressure contributes to your fuel efficiency factor.

Used tires need to be replaced at least once in two years, depending on the type of driving you do. Choose new tires from trusted brands like Dunlop or Michelin. Buying cheap new tires will leave you spending a lot more in the long run.

AUTO AC REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE

Check anti-freeze and coolant levels weekly. If you find that levels are low, you will want to fill it to the maximum fill mark. An important reminder that you should keep in mind is to dilute the coolant with water before actually filling it. You can buy a premixed coolant that you can keep in your car for those times when you are out and about and need a quick change. Auto AC repair shops recommend that you do not do this on your own if you have little experience. The wrong mix of coolants can jeopardize your ACs life.

Auto service shops generally charge by the hour. Costs will vary on the type of maintenance service you're asking for and that excludes parts replacement; however, investing a little time of stuff like rotating your wheels and checking your brakes can go a long way of you plan on using your car for a while.

Tires 4 Less

6306 N Nebraska Ave

Tampa, FL 33604

(813) 238-9791

www.tires4lessstore.com