Taking care of your car shouldn’t be a big hassle. Don’t wait until it’s too late and follow these easy steps to care for your car’s most important parts.

Change Your Oil

Changing your car’s oil at frequent intervals isn’t only a good idea, it’s a must! Motor oil breaks down over time when exposed to heat and friction, which is exactly what happens in your engine. As old oil collects dirt and sludge, it also loses its cooling properties and becomes more volatile. Remember, engine oil is there to keep parts moving smoothly and it’s imperative that it remains clean.

 

Flush Cooling System

A radiator flush is recommended at least once a year, as it drains out contaminants and buildup from your cooling system. Buildup and rust can cause your radiator to overheat and lead to bigger problems. A flush usually consists of a 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water that pushes out the old mixture. In addition to clearing hoses from any debris, the additives in the anti-freeze lubricate the water pump for better performance. One thing to keep in mind is the difference between a radiator flush and a radiator drain. A drain will simply let the old fluids out without pushing out the rest of the contaminants like a flush would. Be sure to ask your mechanic  to throughly inspect the entire cooling system when performing the flush.

 

Keep It Shiny

Keeping your car clean will not only make it look good, but it will help it last longer. Your car’s paint is its first line of defense against rust, and as such it should be kept clean and waxed. Make sure your car’s underbody and wheels get pressure washed to remove any mud and grime from the road.

 

Change Transmission Fluid

Although there is some debate on how often it should be changed, you should at least stick to the manufacturer’s recommendation. The main cause of faulty transmissions is overheating, and this is usually caused by leaks in the fluid system or by old oil. The viscosity of the transmission fluid changes constantly due to the heat is exposed to, and many times collects dirt and gunk, which can cause serious problems. Even if you stick to your owner’s manual recommendation, use the dipstick to check the transmission oil every now and then, as you’ll be able to spot a leak before is too late.

 

Protect The Interior Too

The plastic inside you car can suffer dearly if left dirty and exposed to the sun. Remember temperatures inside you car can  reach well over 110º during summer, and discoloration or staining can occur. Always dust the dashboard with a soft cloth and use a UV protective cleaner to avoid damage from the sun. Also consider parking in a shaded area and/or using a windshield sun shade.

Remember Lamarque Ford offers a full-vehicle parts and service department, so contact us when the time comes.

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Lamarque Ford is proud to be one of the premier dealerships in New Orleans, LA. Located in Kenner, LA, Lamarque Ford is committed to providing you the best customer service and vehicle service for the life of your vehicle. Whether you’re on the market to purchase, finance, or service a new or used Ford vehicle, you’ve come to the right place.