Critical car components you need to keen an eye on

If you maintain your car properly, it will run well for many years. However, failure to do so can lead to a host of serious issues and may even cause accidents down the line.

The six critical vehicle components to check regularly are:

Tyres

Rubber deteriorates over time and just because a tyre appears to be in a good condition does not mean it actually is. An old tyre can be just as dangerous as a worn tyre.

Continental recommends that you replace your tyres in the following conditions:

– the tread depth falls below 1.6 mm, which is the legal limit.

– change summer tyres at 3 mm and winter tyres at 4 mm tread depth; after this point safety and performance characteristics are not optimal.

– all tyres (including spare tyres) more than ten years old should be removed from service and replaced with new tyres.

– verify the physical age of any car tyre by examining the markings on the tyre sidewall following the “DOT” symbol.

Brakes

Over time a vehicle’s braking system will degrade, which can lead to mechanical failure – brake pads are the component most prone to wear and can cause significant damage if they are taken care of.

Brake fluid also becomes less effective over time – if you brake fluid is not transparent, at a low level or has a burnt odour then it is time to have it checked by a mechanic.

Lights

Lights are easy enough to check, provided you have someone to help you.

They should stand outside the vehicle and check that all the vehicle’s lights are in working order when you switch through the various lights and indicators.

Be sure to check the lights you cannot easily see, such as the brake lights, indicator lights and number plate light, often.

Cooling System

The vehicle’s cooling system consists of the radiator, water pump, thermostat, sensors and fluids, which work together to make sure your engine runs at optimal temperature.

When a vehicle overhears it can cause serious damage to the cooling system.

Replace coolant at regular intervals, as is recommended by the vehicle manufacturer and only use approved products.

When you replace old coolant, you should flush the system to ensure the correct mixture ratio is maintained in the system – most vehicles require a 50/50 mix of liquid or coolant.

Charging system

Vehicles use electricity to start up, which is powered by the charging system.

The systems consist of the alternator, voltage regulator and battery.

To take care of the charge do the following:

– keep the vehicle out of cold weather as much as possible as it has a negative impact on battery life.

– keep the battery clean.

– make sure the alternator is charging correctly if you only drive your vehicle short distances.

– have your battery checked regularly.

Wiper blades

Wiper blades deteriorate quickly and need to be replaced often, most wipers need to be changed at least once a year.

If you wipers work quietly and smoothly clear away water, they are working correctly.

If they make a loud sound or seem to be swiping roughly, they may need to be replaced. Another tell-tale sign is if they’re leaving sections of the windshield uncleaned.

Picture: Unsplash