Juble.com asked:


For most automatic vehicles, the manufacturers suggest that the transmission fluid be checked every 30,000 to 40,000 miles. However, unless there is a noticeable issue, such as trouble shifting, most drivers forget all about maintaining their automatic transmission fluid. What eventually happens, is that by the time that a mechanic performs your regular maintenance tune-up, the repairs that you need are serious and expensive.

In part 4 of our “how to” series for monthly automotive maintenance, we are going to learn an easy to do, and easy to remember method of keeping our transmission fluid topped off, thereby keeping our engine running smoothly.



Checking the automatic transmission fluid



Tips to know before you start

1.    Your owner’s manual will tell you which type of automatic transmission fluid you should be using. The two common types are Type F, and Dexron, also known as Mercron. Some carmakers, require specially designed, unique automatic transmission fluid for new models.

2.    Automatic transmission fluid does not get used up, if your fluid level is low, then you need to find the leak.

3.    When adding automatic transmission fluid, be very cautious, that the fluid does not accidentally come into contact with the exhaust manifold. If it does, it could cause a quick and furious engine fire.

The steps to take

1.    Always check your operator’s manual before you perform this maintenance check on a vehicle for the first time. Some makes of car need to have the engine running for this, and some do not. You could end up in serious trouble if you use the wrong procedure.

2.    Make sure the car is parked on a level part of the road or driveway.

3.    Leave the engine running, in park or in neutral, and give the engine a chance to warm up thoroughly. Unless your owner’s manual states otherwise.

4.    The reservoir for automatic transmission fluid is actually in the transmission, located near the back of the engine.

5.    The dipstick for the automatic transmission fluid looks very similar to the dipstick for engine oil, once you locate it, pull it completely out, wipe it off, replace it, and now pull it completely back out again.

6.    On the dipstick, you will see two distinct level markings, one for a warm level reading, and one for a cold level reading.

7.    If the fluid level does not reach the full line for the warm reading, then you need to add transmission fluid.

8.    Be very careful not to over fill, adding too much causes the fluid to foam, and it could splash you, causing minor to sever irritation, or even burns to your skin or eyes.

The automatic transmission fluid is a translucent, reddish color when it is in good, clean condition. If the fluid in your transmission is a dark, murky red, or a blackish hue, then you will most likely need to have the transmission fluid flushed. This is a maintenance measure, best done by someone who has done it before.

 

 

http://www.juble.com/articles/a304-automatic-transmission-fluid-monthly-automotive-maintenance-part-4.html



LUCILLE

Noah Scott asked:


Tonneau covers (like GM Tonneau Cover) are made of leather, vinyl or other soft flexible materials used for protecting the interior of a convertible when the soft top is down. Tonneau covers are also used in pickup trucks to protect the luggage or other stuff placed at the truck’s bed from dirt particles and other foreign objects.

To prolong the usage and function of tonneau covers, you should check it regularly for wear outs, looseness, and other debris caught on the cover. Check mounting hardware regularly to insure that all bolts or clamps are tight. Lit is also recommended that you lubricate the locks regularly with a quality Teflon or silicone spray by using a can with an insertable plastic tube. Best of all, check the manufacturer of the tonneau cover for specific maintenance and cleaning guides since there are several tonneau cover designs and types.

When cleaning your tonneau cover, make sure to clean your vehicle and cover in shaded place like under a tree or in an open garage. Start by washing your lid with cool, clean water and a mild soap. Make sure to first flood the lid with water to remove surface grit that will scratch the finish when wiped. Next, using a hose, rinse the cover well making sure to remove all traces of soap and wipe off excess water using a sponge. Be careful to hose down the entire car to prevent soap from streaking your car’s paint finish. Do not use chemicals like detergents, dish washing liquids, bleaches, harsh cleansers, strong cleaners, dry-cleaning solvents, or any other strong chemicals as a cleanser. These chemicals can have harmful substances on its mixture that could damage your tonneau covers. Moreover, avoid using hot water when cleaning the cover.

If you have a vinyl tonneau cover, apply some quality vinyl cleaner that you can find in the nearest auto shop. Using a white all-cotton towel, wash the entire tonneau cover with the cleaner. Make sure to follow the instructions found on your chosen cleaner to help you out in your work and to avoid damaging your tonneau covers. Wash the entire tonneau cover and never spot clean to avoid rings or bright spots on your tonneau covers. Make sure that you will only use soft cotton cloth or sponge as a cleaning tool. Do not use rough abrasive cleaning pads because it can scratch the vinyl creating pores that allows dirt and other unwanted particles to stick.

Repeat the cleaning process if you feel that you haven’t done enough and the tonneau cover is still dirty.



RICHIE

new2boston2006 asked:


I know maintenance is important… Just I am not a good record keeper. Thanks in advance.

MARIA

JustJill asked:


My mechanic always gives me a sticker reminding me to bring my car in for maintenance after 3 months or 3000 miles. I do not drive much so after 3 months I am still 1500 miles under the suggested mileage for maintenance. Should I bring my car in every 3 months regardless of the mileage, or should I schedule my visits solely on the mileage?

LIONEL

airforcewolf asked:


I went to Tire Kingdom recently and they tried to persuade me to get a tire alignment as part of my car’s maintenance. But it handles just fine and I don’t really have any problems with the steering. The tires themselves are okay, too. Were they just trying to scam me or are tire alignments really a preventative maintenance procedure?

MARIA

Dwyane Thomas asked:


Every year, the US always has a huge number of cases of road accidents that cause death of many people. Poor auto maintenance is the pointed reason on this matter.

As the most popular and common means of transportation, cars need to be properly checked regularly to avoid accidents. Keeping one’s auto mobile in excellent condition (which means not luxurious but safety wise) can greatly minimize the risk of accidents.

Before going on the road, regularly check the tires. Regardless of the type of car you use, it is important to examine if there are low treads, flats, worn spots, or leaks, their air levels and if they are over used. To be sure, do the inspection on a weekly basis.

Every after six months, make sure to change your windshield wipers. This is to assure that your eyes will clearly see every single detail on the road.

If you own a Mercedes, it is advisable to regularly check the Mercedes Benz brake caliper. This generates a speed-stopping amount of friction to slow down your Benz. It therefore needs regular checking.

Most accidents happen during intensive speed of the car. Remember that the brakes slow down your car from a given speed. If the brake pedal goes all the way to the floor upon pressing it, it means they are very low. So you better check on it.

In the case of you Mercedes, since this car brand is always the first when it comes to new technology and safety features, it might have brake warning system. This lets the driver know if there is something wrong with the car’s brake system. Usually, this warning system is found on the dashboard. This lights up whenever there is something wrong with the brakes.

Headlights, on the other hand, should be replaced every year. These are another very significant auto parts for a clear vision on the road.

Other auto parts and related concerns that need regular checking include the suspension or steering, electronic or ignition control, electrical problem, oil change, filters, lube, exhaust system, fuel system or carburetor, clutch or transmission, and the air conditioning system.

Maintaining a car is expensive. It is said to be the very reason why car owners do not regularly maintain their vehicles; which in effect results to accidents.

Nonetheless, on a positive side, there are ways to save money while doing a car repair and maintenance at the same time.

If you are planning to go to a mechanic for a car repair, always make sure to get the lowest price possible for a quality repair. If you want to really save money while doing a repair, do it yourself. Use the tools found in your garage. You can also borrow some from the neighborhood. But be sure to use the appropriate and well functioning tools. Consulting your owner’s manual will help a lot.

Do a preventive maintenance. This means repairing auto parts before they get severely deteriorated or worn out. Huge problem may mean huge amount of money for its resolution. But if you do preventive maintenance, money saving is an assurance.



HOLLIS

Jason Prescott asked:


Auto Maintenance And Repair

Taking care of your vehicle is the best way to ensure its long life and as-low-as-feasible repair bills for you.

Your owner’s manual should state recommended vehicle maintenance intervals and the good news is, newer cars are being manufactured that require less frequent maintenance.

Scheduled Maintenance

When you buy a new car, certain maintenance may be included free under your warranty at a certain mileage or length of ownership; and when you lease, you may be required to meet these deadlines-the dealer wants to make sure when you return that lease car that it’s in resellable shape.

If you’re getting a vehicle you plan to take home the same day, don’t even think of doing so without getting the okay from your insurer first.

Your fullcoverage policy may protect your new vehicle as you drive it off the lot and you may have a month to actually arrange coverage on the new car, but first verify the extent of your coverage and your responsibilities in switching the policy over with an insurer’s representative.

Some bare-bones policies won’t protect your new car, and you should allow at least a day or two between sealing the deal and taking delivery to get full insurance coverage set up with an agent.

Typical Insurances And Costs

The cost to insure a vehicle has traditionally differed by hundreds of dollars depending on location from just a few hundred dollars on average in some parts to close to a thousand in others and many people pay much higher-than-average rates. How much you spend is determined by factors such as:

· The coverages you get 

· Your driving record 

· How many miles you drive 

· How long you’ve been licensed 

· Your age 

· What kind of car you have 

· Where you live

Domestic auto manufacturers alone are posting record profits topping $16 billion a year. A lot of money is pouring into profit margins, and this year some of it may be yours.

The objective is to pay a fair price-in this case, fair should be as little as humanly possible. The car industry is doing quite well, thank you, and you don’t need to subsidize it.

One way you can pay a relatively measly amount for an automobile, if you’re buying new, is to help out the dealer and the manufacturer. They’ve got a hot new model out that buyers are lining up for, ready to pay more than they should. You can take a slow mover off their hands (provided, of course, that it suits your tastes).

Manufacturers will let you know when their inventory numbers aren’t balancing and they need to clear the decks, they’ll put cars on sale, using rebates and other incentives.



RAMONA

John Pawlett asked:


You drive your car everyday. Do you pay attention to it? Do you feel that slight shimmy in the front end? Is there a new knocking sound under the hood? Is there a rattle in the dashboard? No one knows your car better than you do. If you feel something different, or if it isn’t handling correctly take it to your mechanic. It could be something as simple as a tire out of alignment, or perhaps a loose belt. It’s always best to find any small problem before it becomes a large one.

Here are some simple maintenance tips that you can follow to help prolong the life of your car, and help save you money.

Notice where you park your car and get into the habit of looking to see if there are any leaks when you pull out. This can be very tricky in a public garage with lots of stains from leaks from other cars, but if your car is leaking any type of fluid, transmission, radiator or brake the leak will look “fresh”. If you see any fluid leaking have your car serviced as soon as possible.

Keep an eye on your tires. When you have your oil changed every 3,000 miles have your tires rotated. At this time the technician will inspect your tires for any wear. Keep your tires aligned. Check your tire pressure once every month. It’s easy enough to read tire gauges and they even have electronic ones. Keeping your tires properly inflated helps increase gas mileage too.

As mentioned above, change your oil at least every 3,000 miles. The oil is the life blood of your car and keeping fresh oil in your car can extends it’s life by many, many miles. At this time the technician will check your air filter, hoses and belts.

Keep your windshield washer reservoir full and carry an extra gallon with you. You don’t want to be caught without washer fluid, and you don’t realize how quickly you use it up, especially in the winter months when we get salt spray on the windshield. Replace your wiper blades once a year

Since man developed fondness for automobiles, the auto industry just grew bigger and more diversified. Almost every stage in the history of cars is marked by an invention, an introduction of a new design or car concept and a whole lot of new ideas aimed at improving car’s performance, style and safety features. Likewise, replacement auto parts market has thrived due to the growing demands of auto users. Hence, today, more choices of high quality auto parts and even accessories are available for your car repair, car maintenance and customization.



ISREAL

Antonio Vargas asked:


From the stunning accessories to maintenance, you can get everything covered under the auto loan. Nowadays, with low interest auto loan borrower can enjoy easy installments for comfortable time duration.

Under Low interest auto loan , some borrowers prefer to avail luxury car, commercial car or family car whereas others prefer to opt for the bike with latest model and easy strokes. But before making the selection for your dream auto loan don’t forget to survey the market price of your automobile.

While availing the low interest auto loan, borrower must feel relax as auto loan deals with the other expenses like maintenance and upgrade, paint, buying accessories and music systems, servicing etc.

While considering his financial situation borrower can either avail secured or unsecured auto loan. In secured loan, borrower has to place his collateral or car against the loaned amount. In the secured auto loan, borrower is offered larger amount, longer time period, flexible repayment term. Whereas in unsecured auto loan, borrower willingly or unwillingly doesn’t place collateral against the auto loan.

Therefore, low interest auto loan is familiar among everyone i.e. homeowners, tenants, students, self employed, salaried etc. but with little difference of terms and conditions. Generally, time duration of the low interest auto loans ranges from 3 to 6 years.

Today, as the loan market is flooded away with the lenders that offer easy and cheaper rates, so availing low interest auto loan is no more challenging. For that borrower just have to do proper search and research so that he lands up in best deal.

Low interest auto loan can be accessed from the financial institutions, banks, dealers, online lenders, etc. Online mode offers easy and simple way to avail automobile i.e. while sitting at office or home.

Online mode provides easy and convenient way to compare and contrast the quotes of different lenders, especially when the borrower uses online loan calculators to get the exact figures.

Availing low interest auto loan helps the borrower to save a lot of money which he can use in meeting his other expenses.



JEREMIAH

Brooke Hayles asked:


Auto Glass is new generation glass with great looks and high security features. It is extensively used in car windscreens, building exteriors and niche interiors in commercial places. You can also go for this type of glass in your home windows. To get the best out of them, here are some tips.

Different kinds of Auto glass

There are two popular kinds of this glass. Laminated glass is the first variety, which is used in car windscreens. It is made of two layers of glass laminated to a sheet of vinyl in the middle. If this glass breaks, the lamination holds the broken pieces together. The other variety is tempered glass. This glass has been heated up almost to melting point and then quenched with specific air flow to cause the tempering effect. The glass is strengthened by this process. It is used in building interiors and exteriors. Auto glass is usually used commercially but, you can always use it in your home to create a unique ambience.

Safety

Safety is an important component of Auto glass. That’s why car windscreens use this variety of glass. It does not ordinarily disintegrate into shreds during road accidents. You are safe from injuries from glass splinters. The best results with this glass are obtained if the installation is carried out properly. You need to look into this matter seriously. Get skilled technicians to install your glass accessories. If you ignore this, you may be jeopardizing your own security. Remember, a survey done by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration* (NHTSA) shows that there were 330,000 vehicles involved in rollover crashes in the United States in 2002. Auto glass windscreens can, to a great extent, minimize your injury risks.

Repairs and replacement – tips to avoid being ripped off

If your Auto glass is damaged, check out first whether it needs a repair or a complete replacement. Repairs are cheaper by 25% compared to replacements. But, again, you should not compromise. Have it tested by a skilled technician. If replacement is necessary, don’t cut costs going for repairs. By planning to save something, you may ultimately end up with higher injury risks. Never get repairs or replacements carried out by unskilled people. It is wise to choose recommended brands and have the installations carried out by their service personnel

Maintenance

Keep your Auto glass absolutely clean. You can see better through clean glass. Gently blow away dust from your screen before wiping it. This can prevent scratches on the glass from dust particles. Use mild soap solution to clean the glass. Fortunately, this glass requires minimum maintenance. Some care can give more life to your glass fitted accessories.

Summary:

For great looks and high-end safety features, Auto glass is the user’s first choice. It is extensively used in car windscreens to ensure your safety while driving. This type of glass requires minimum maintenance and regular cleaning can give you the best results.



CAROLE