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Under hood checks
Once a month. New vehicles require less attention and most
problems are covered by the warrantee, BUT
if the problem has to do with low oil, and as a result engine damage occurs,
you are not
covered. even if the low oil level was not your fault, you
may be stuck with replacing an engine out of your own pocket, or paying a
lawyer to fight the manufacturer. It has happened, and more often than
you might think
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Oil change
Follow manufacturer's recommendations in your owners manual, (required to maintain
warrantee). Some new engines normally run very hot and are hard on oil. even
missing a single oil change can cause an engine to develop sludge which can
cause engine damage in as little as 15,000 miles. Sludge problems are
NOT covered by the warrantee. You could be stuck with a bill for major
engine work! It happens more times than you think, usually to people
who lease their car and think that they can get away with not doing proper
maintenance.
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Washing
Every 2 to 4 weeks depending on conditions in your area. Garaged cars can go longer.
Bird droppings should be removed as soon as possible as they can damage the finish.
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Waxing
Optional. Waxing will protect the finish and require less washing. A good idea if you
park outside in industrial areas or under trees.
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Align & Balance
Check the tires for unusual wear or drifting right or left when on a straight
road. (Click on Align & Balance for more info.)
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Tire rotation
This is more important for front-wheel-drive cars that usually wear
front tires much faster than rear-wheel-drive vehicles. Check the tread
depth from time to time. Turning a car back with two completely worn tires
and two tires that look like new will cost you whereas four half worn tires
will probably not.
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Tune up
Usually not required during the lease period. Follow manufacturer's recommendation.
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Winterizing
Usually not required during the lease period. Follow manufacturer's recommendation.
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Timing belt
Usually not required for the first 60,000 miles. Check owner's manual to see if your vehicle has
one, then follow manufacturer's recommendation. Letting this service go can
cause severe engine damage if the old belt fails which may not be covered
under the warrantee.
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Filters
The air filter can easily be checked and replaced if it is clogged.
The fuel filter should be ok for the lease period but can get clogged with a
bad load of gas. Emission control filters will be replaced under
warrantee if they fail.
