subject: Learn About Automotive Inspection And Maintenance To Minimize Car Repair [print this page] It is vital for any automotive owner to learn about automotive inspection and maintenance in order to minimize the need for frequent car repair and prolong the life of the vehicle. Car repair can be very expensive, especially when one talks about engine, brakes and transmission system repair. Even auto AC repair costs can add up if done frequently. To avoid such expenses, you will need to have a reliable mechanic from an auto service in Tampa that is an expert in diagnostics and car repair. Do not wait until you will need to call for towing services of tow trucks while you are on the road.
First of all, an automotive owner should be very familiar with the owner's manual of the vehicle. This is the basic reference for automotive maintenance procedures and schedules according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Your auto service mechanic should comply with the instructions in your owner's manual. If your vehicle is quite old, though, you can expect your auto service mechanic to recommend even more stringent maintenance procedures.
You yourself can do your own diagnostic checks on your vehicle day by day. This is very important in order to catch early symptoms of automotive problems. Early detection can mean less expensive car repair.
You should regularly check the garage floor or parking slot beneath your vehicle for wet spots or puddles of liquid. If the liquid is clear, you need not worry. This is just probably water that came from the condensation of your vehicle's air conditioning system. Colored liquids may be danger signs, though, as they could mean serious leaks in your system. An overheated engine or leaking anti-freeze can produce yellow green, orange or blue liquid. Oily liquids that are red, black or dark brown could indicate that your transmission system is leaking transmission fluid. This means you should immediate contact your Tampa auto service mechanic.
You should also use your sense of smell in checking your vehicle. Certain odors should immediately alert you to a possible problem. Never ignore these danger signs.
You should always take a quick sniff of your transmission fluid whenever you check it. If you detect a burnt smell this means that your transmission system may soon fail you in the middle of the road in Tampa. Your automotive oil should not smell acrid. If you get a whiff of a a sharp smell that is similar to burnt toast, it could mean that you have an electrical short and burning insulation.
Keep your sense of smell keen even while driving. You will notice a chemical-like smell similar to burning resin when your clutch or brakes overheat. You have to immediately pull over and wait for your clutch or brakes to cool down. If you see any sign of smoke, do not under any circumstances start your vehicle.
You will smell a sweet and steamy odor if your coolant is leaking. This means your vehicle will soon overheat. Again, you should pull over at once and remedy the situation. If the odor from your car hood is more metallic, this can be even more dangerous.
The smell of gasoline means your fuel system is leaking. A sulphuric smell similar to rotten eggs means there is a problem in your emission control devices.
Another thing you should keenly observe is your vehicle's response to your handling. Watch out for any unusual sounds, vibrations, jerks, scraping or grinding. Any of these should immediately be reported to your auto service mechanic.
The automotive owner who knows much about automotive inspection and maintenance will always have a distinct advantage. You will have an edge in keeping your vehicle in top shape longer and in working in cooperation with your mechanic and auto service to make the most of diagnostic services and car repair.
