Insurance Machine

Is it possible that your car is an accident that is just waiting to happen? To avoid this situation it is important to carry out the following safety checks at least once monthly to avoid breakdowns, possible mechanical disasters, or unsafe driving conditions.

The Tires
The car’s tires could be referred to as the Rodney Dangerfield of car priorities. It really seems like they just don’t get any respect. Each year there are at least 20,000 car accidents that occur that can be linked to tire blow-outs or other tire failures. Most, if not all of these are considered as being preventable. Even though they are easily inspected and cared for, improper tire maintenance is ranked as the single greatest contributor to those car crashes.

It is extremely important to maintain proper tire inflation. Over time and as a result of weather changes, tires lose pressure, and it is the nature of present day radial tires that you can't tell by looking at them if they are underinflated. Therefore you need to purchase a pressure gauge and make it a point to maintain pressure at recommended levels.

Braking effectiveness are affected by both the depth of tread and the amount of wear. When uneven tire wear appears, it is usually an indication of wheel alignment problems or problems with tire balance. To be serviceable a tire needs to have at least an eighth of an inch of remaining tread depth. One way that you can check this is to place a penny in the tire groove with Lincoln’s head placed upside down and facing out. You need to replace the tire if Lincoln’s head remains visible.

The Condition of Brakes
Take note of what your right foot is being told by the brake pedal. If you notice that there is decreased resistance or that the brake pedal is depressed more than normal, the brakes need to be inspected. If you are hearing a grating noise or feeling vibrations, it may mean that the rotors are being worn down due to the fact that the brake pads are too thin. When the brakes are worn the stopping distance is increased and the efficiency of the brakes is reduced. You need to assure that the brake pads are of adequate thickness and that the rotors are not damaged.

Checking of Fluids
There are many vital systems in your car that depend on the maintenance of a proper level and quality of various fluids. The first thing is to check under your car for signs of a leak. Next you need to check your oil level. Low levels or used up oil can irreparably damage the more expensive parts of your car. The best thing for your car is to change the oil frequently. Another thing you can do is to check the fluid levels of your radiator coolant, as well as the brake master cylinder, the windshield washer, transmission fluid, and power steering units.