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MAINTENANCE
A few things to consider.
TUNING & BRAKES
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When it comes to safety, no part of your vehicle is more important than the brakes. They should be inspected at least once a year to determine the condition of the hydraulic system and operating hardware. While the entire braking system requires attention, the friction components (pads, shoes, rotors and drums) require constant attention because they wear down each time you apply your brakes.
How can I tell when I need a brake service or brake repair?
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The brake pedal can be depressed nearly to the floor.
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You hear a squealing or other unusual noise when you apply the brakes. Some brands of brake pads have a built-in device that produces a high-pitched squeal when the brake pads need replacing.
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The vehicle pulls to one side when you apply the brakes.
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You feel a grinding or bumpy sensation as you come to a stop.
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In general, if there is something about your brakes that is making you uncomfortable, you should have them inspected.
What are the benefits of a properly maintained braking system?
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Safety
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Firm and steady pedal feel
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Peace of mind
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Consistent stopping under repeated hard braking conditions
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Even braking
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Longer brake system component and friction material life
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Smooth stopping
General Service
Auto technicians say the key to keeping vehicles running well-today and down the road-is routine maintenance. Yet many drivers tend to stall when it comes to keeping up with some everyday auto-basics. A recent survey by the Car Care Council found:
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25% of cars had low or dirty engine oil.
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13% had low or contaminated brake fluid.
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18% had dirty air filters.
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17% had inadequate cooling protection or low coolant levels.
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16% needed new windshield wiper and 27% had low or contaminated washer fluid.
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18% needed new belts
Overall, 89% of vehicles were in need of at least one service or repair.
A regular service schedule can help keep your car running it’s best. For your convenience, the Car Care Council developed a Service Interval Schedule to help you keep track of regular maintenance. Most of the checks and services described here can be done at little or no cost. Best of all, they are quick and easy to do.
WHEELS & SUSPENSION
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On the surface it appears the suspension of a car has a pretty straightforward job. If the bumps end up being less bumpy then it’s all good, right?
In reality, the suspension system has a massive amount to do and the components have to withstand an enormous amount of stress compared to other major systems in a car. The suspension system is located between the frame and the wheels and serves multiple important purposes. Ideally, well-tuned suspension will absorb bumps and other imperfections in the road so the people inside the car can travel comfortably. While this is very important from a passenger’s perspective, the driver will notice certain other attributes of the suspension system. This system also is responsible for keeping the wheels on the ground as much as possible.
The wheels are extremely important for performance and vehicle safety. The wheels are the only part of a car that touches the road. This means they have to put power to the ground and steer simultaneously while also being responsible for stopping the vehicle. Without a system to absorb the bumps and potholes present in roads, the vehicle would shake and wobble over rough surface and make the vehicle essentially unusable from lack of traction. While the suspension system is a great solution for bumpy roads, it does add in a lot of complexity when you consider that the wheels now are responsible for all of their standard duties and now have to travel up and down to absorb shock from bumps while making the vehicle handle like it isn’t on springs and being tossed about with every turn.
This is why the suspension system is very complex. There are many parts involved and a single broken or bent piece can sabotage the whole setup.