Suppose you were lucky enough to receive a brand new Toyota vehicle as a high school graduation gift as you transition into college. Or you are just someone who is just moving out of your folks' home for the first time; understanding how to take care of your car is essential to your success as an independent adult. They transport our families and us to work, school, and many spur-of-the-moment grocery runs! Given how well they have taken care of us, we should do our part to keep them in good condition.
We know that leaving the home you grew up with comes with an endless to-do list, not to mention plenty of emotions, but please take a few minutes to read this list of must-knows from the experts at your Toyota dealer near Anaheim:
Always practice safe driving.
This is common sense, but it's alarming how many drivers who manage to pass their exams do not do this! We cannot stress this enough: NEVER text while driving or drive while you're not completely alert! It's incredible how few people are aware that automobile accidents are a significant cause of death in the US and that many of them are wholly preventable. This year, be cautious, alert, and considerate of other road users.
Get your oil checked when it's due.
The smooth operation of your car's mechanics depends on proper lubrication. Regular oil changes and checking your oil levels are recommended (about once a month). You risk causing long-term damage to your car if you don't change your oil as frequently as you should. If you are unsure how to maintain your car's oil level, consult the owner's manual. Usually, you should change your oil after 5,000 miles, but you should check it much more frequently. When was the last time you had your oil changed? If not, you should learn how to change your oil and filter. If you're too busy to change the oil, a mechanic will charge you between $50 and $100.
Look after your tires; consider learning how to change them yourself.
It's not rocket science to figure out whether or not you have a flat tire, but according to a Toyota dealer serving Anaheim, it's not always obvious when your tires are worn out, deflated, or when it's time to replace them. Overinflated tires run the risk of blowing out; however, having underinflated tires can reduce your miles per gallon and lead to more flats. Use a tire gauge to check the recommended tire pressure (typically 30-35 PSI), which can be found in your owner's manual. Visit a nearby gas station if the tire is too low; they frequently offer free tire filling.
In the case of an emergency, it's also helpful to learn how to change your tires on your own if you are ever in an emergency. Perhaps your phone is dead, and you cannot call for help, and there is simply no such thing as being unprepared.
Learn how to jump your car if it won't turn on.
Jumping your car is easier than you may think it is. Any ordinary person who does not have the same knowledge or experience as a mechanic can do it! But be careful—if you disconnect the battery, you risk electrocution. Black denotes a negative charge and red, a positive direction; mistaking one for the other can lead to disastrous consequences.
Check fluids and adhere to the maintenance schedule.
It's acceptable to need to have a professional work on your car occasionally. To keep them running efficiently, cars sometimes require maintenance from a mechanic or Tustin auto service. It never hurts to get your fluids checked, tires rotated and generally inspected. Once more, you should follow the maintenance schedule in your owner's manual. Every car's manual is accessible online. Many major auto repairs can be halted by regularly checking and replacing your vehicle's fluids with the help of the trusted service department of Toyota of Orange. They can help you check the fluids in your power steering, wiper, transmission, and engine every month! When you get an oil change, have them check your brake fluid, and at least twice a year, get your coolant checked.
Choose Toyota of Orange as your trusted Toyota.
Even if you didn't purchase your vehicle at our Toyota dealer near Anaheim, you could always choose us as your go-to destination whenever you need to sharpen your beloved ride up. Our experts are here for you 7 days a week. Please get in touch with us today for any Toyota services you need. We can hardly wait to welcome you as a new member of our family!
