5 Tips For Extending Your Car's Life

5 Tips For Extending Your Car’s Life

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Everyone has that one friend whose 1998 Honda Civic still runs like it’s brand new. But how do they do it? And how can you? Follow these 5 tips for extending your car’s life and you will spend less on repairs, and get extra mileage from your car!

1. Consistent oil changes

Infrequent oil changes are the number one cause of engine wear and tear, caused by friction within the engine. Most vehicles should get an oil change every 5,000 to 8,000 km, but every car is different. Check your owner’s manual to find your car’s schedule or shoot us a message in our chat and we’ll help you out.

2. Don’t ignore small problems

All cars have signs of aging – your steering might feel off, or you might hear a noise when you turn on the AC. But these small issues can turn into expensive major repairs if gone unchecked. So, avoid this with regular inspections of your car and sort out all the minor issues.

3. Monitor your air filter

Your car’s mileage can be drastically reduced if your air filter is not replaced when necessary. Although many mechanics “up-sell” air filters, they can be important to replace when at the end of their lifespan, which is typically 30,000 to 50,000km. Air filters may last longer if you don’t drive on unpaved roads.

4. Keep your fluids topped up

Besides oil, your car uses transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant. Your car will perform worse, and can even be damaged, without proper fluids. Our mechanics can change each of these fluids for you, or even top them off while doing another repair.

5. Check your tyre pressure

Low tyre pressure can adversely impact your fuel consumption and vehicle handling. Recommended tire pressure can be found on the label inside your driver’s side door. Your tire pressure should be within 5 PSI of this measurement.

We can guarantee that by following these 5 tips for extending your car’s life, your vehicle will last longer and you will get more mileage. So take action now and tick off each item. If you need a minor repair, oil change or a service book a trusted mechanic online now with Michanic.

 

We understand that your car plays an important part of your daily life, transporting you and your loved ones. Michanic is dedicated to providing the most convenient services for our customers, so if you have any other questions or concerns regarding your car, feel free to talk to our customer service team through email at [email protected], or by phone on 087 803 9000.

Click here to get a quote for your next service.

How Long Do Brake Pads Last?

How Long Do Brake Pads Last?

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Your brakes are the most important safety feature on your car. So, it’s important to know how long your brake pads will last before needing replacement. Some can last for more than 80,000 kms, but some only last around 30,000 kms. This all depends on the quality of the brake pads fitted, your driving style, and the type of car you own.

Reasons That Will Determine How Long Your Brake Pads Last

Brake pads are a high wear car part due to the substantial pressure they are put under when stopping. That’s why the way you brake and the kind of braking you do are the biggest factors that determine how long your they will last. Harsh continuous braking typical of city driving can halve the life of your brakes when compared to high way use.

Apart from that, the quality of the brake pads used can also have a real impact on how long they will last. Brake pads made from materials with an inconsistent quality will usually wear quicker than those with high grade materials. It’s normally advisable to use high quality aftermarket parts hat are OEM approved.

Why Front Brake Pads Usually Last Longer Than Rear Pads

If you’ve owned a car for a while you will have noticed the front brake pads wear out faster. This is because front brakes are subjected to a lot more stress as they are burdened with more weight transfer when braking.

Manufacturers engineer braking systems for most of the braking strain to be on the front brakes to ensure better stability. This is why the front brake discs usually have a larger diameter than the rear.

Other Factors That Reduce Brake Pad Longevity

It is important to keep in mind that driving with old and worn down brake pads will result in a costly fix. Worn out pads will damage your discs. The metal on metal friction is what causes a squeaking noise when breaking. If this is the case, it’s advisable to replace both the discs and the pads. If you only replace the pads but not the worn disk, those brand-new brake pads will wear down much faster. Worn disks also heat up quicker negatively impacting your stopping distance, making your car less safe to drive.

Michanic recommends that you inspect your brakes regularly and use your brakes wisely when driving. Keep safe following distances, use your gears in combination with your brakes, and anticipate when you are going to need to stop. Doing this will save you money on brake pad repairs in the long run.

We understand that your car plays an important part of your daily life, transporting you and your loved ones. Michanic is dedicated to providing the most convenient services for our customers, so if you have any other questions or concerns regarding your car, feel free to talk to our customer service team through email at [email protected], or by phone on 087 803 9000.

Click here to get a instant quote to replace your brake pads.

DIY: How To Check Your Engine Oil Level

DIY: How To Check Your Engine Oil Level

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Did you know that most experts recommend checking your engine oil at least once per month?! when was the last time you checked yours? Engine oil is super important as it acts as a lubricant that prevents the engine components of your car from damage cause by friction as they move around. Here’s how to check your engine oil level in 4 simple steps:

1. Turn off the engine

Make sure the engine is cool so you don’t burn yourself and so that the engine oil has settled. Ensure that it has been off for at least 10 minutes and is cool. You’ll also need to make sure that your car is parked on a level surface.

2. Locate the dipstick

Pop open the bonnet, and look for the dipstick. The dipstick is a long rod which goes deep into your engine and usually has a brightly coloured handle.

3. Clean the dipstick

Wipe any oil off the dipstick with a clean cloth or rag.

4. Check the oil level

Stick the clean dipstick back into the tube, and ensure the end reaches the bottom, then pull the dipstick back out again. There will be an upper and lower mark on the dipstick, the oil level should be between these two marks. If it’s below or on the lower mark, you need to top up your oil to risk causing any engine damage. If you engine oil is dirty (dark black) consider replacing it.

Some cars have a digital oil check function in their cars and no longer use dip sticks. Different cars access the oil levels from the dash in different ways. If your car does not have a dip stick, check your car manual to see how to check your engine oil or book a trusted mechanic now to come have a look for you.

 

We understand that your car plays an important part of your daily life, transporting you and your loved ones. Michanic is dedicated to providing the most convenient services for our customers, so if you have any other questions or concerns regarding your car, feel free to talk to our customer service team through email at [email protected], or by phone on 087 803 9000.

Click here to get a quote for your next service.

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