When it comes to maintaining a vehicle, you don’t always need special tools. Sometimes household objects can work well for certain tasks.
A great example of this is a makeup brush. Perfect for getting into tight spots and crevices, you can use one to clean the air vents on your Ford. While the cabin air filter prevents dust from getting inside the car through the A/C system, particles can find their way in through other means. The last thing you want is to crank up the A/C and get a face full of dust. A quick wiper down will take care of that problem instantly.
If you frequently travel with your dog or another furry companion, then you may have to deal with pet hair. You can use tape or a roller brush to remove it from the cloth seats, and a squeegee is ideal for vinyl materials. Dampen the fabric with water from a spray bottle, then use the squeegee to remove any fur.
Finally, you can eliminate foul odours by using a vinegar and baking soda solution. Mix the two ingredients together to form a thick paste. Then, rub it into the offensive spot and scrub the area. You can finish off by rinsing it with water and letting it dry.
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When it comes to preparing a vehicle for winter, there are several steps you should take in terms of maintenance.
First, you should have a protection plan in place if you do not have a garage or carport. A vehicle cover will go a long way to shielding the transport from harsh weather conditions.
Next, an oil change is in order. Synthetic is recommended due to its superior viscosity during colder temperatures. The filter should also be swapped out for a new one.
Then, you should ensure that all of the glass - including the exterior mirrors - is cleaned. Aside from scraping, you can add a de-icing fluid to the windshield liquid tank. This will help prevent the buildup of frost.
Another thing you need to do is inspect your tires. An all-season set should be okay to ride on, but you need to make sure the tread is good and the air pressure is within the appropriate range. Under inflation tends to occur at low temperatures.
The last things should do is to top off the antifreeze, clean the fuel injectors, check on the radiator cap/thermostat, test the lights, and build an emergency kit.
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The purpose of a windshield is far more complex than just a barrier for air. This piece of glass is crucial for holding up the roof in the event of a rollover, assisting with airbag deployment, and absorbing the impact of a collision. Ensuring that yours is in good condition is vital for safe driving.
The first tip to keeping the front glass intact is to avoid slamming doors. When a door is shut with excessive force, the vibration causes the windshield to weaken over time. If you already have chips in the glass from rogue rocks, it can make them worse. You should get any flaws repaired immediately as well.
Another preventative measure you can take is to avoid direct sun. If you don’t have a garage or carport to park under, then you should invest in a vehicle cover. Ultraviolet rays can compromise the strength of the glass, and they can even cause discoloration. The wide change in temperature may also make chips larger.
Wiper blades should be switched out with a new set every three to six months, and you should clean them once a week too. Never use ammonia-based solutions. This can cause a tint to form on the glass. Instead, use a product specifically designed for cleaning automobile glass, alcohol, or vinegar.
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When you ride in a new car, you will notice that the experience from inside the cabin is always quite pleasant. Over the years - and with rough driving - the suspension system can get worn out. This can cause discomfort. However, proper maintenance  (and the right parts) can help.
About every 80,467 km (50,000 miles) the suspension system needs to be inspected. This doesn’t just include the shock absorbers and struts. You should also have the tires, bearings, springs, and linkages checked as well. You can request this at an oil change.
Bushings are other elements that should be looked at. Made of rubber, they serve as cushions to soak up vibration. You will find them on the strut rods, sway bars, control rods, and track bars. You should also make sure that no oil contamination has occurred. This type of lubrication can cause failure.
The ball joints need to be inspected too, and the grease fittings need to be topped off. As for the struts and shock absorbers, these should be checked for oil leaks. Run by a hydraulic system, you can determine if an issue is present if the components are wet. Finally, you can perform a bounce test to see if everything is in good working order.
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Most modern vehicles now have power steering for optimized control. However, did you know that this system needs regular maintenance just like all the other features? If it goes bad, it could make it very difficult to maneuver around corners, and it can cause uneven wear on your tires.
The first step to maintaining the power steering system is to keep the fluid levels full with clean liquid. Contaminated fluids or low levels can cause issues with the mechanism as a whole.
Next is to inspect the pump and replace it when needed. This is a hydraulic component that injects liquid. When it backfires, lubrication is not completed. You can have this element checked during regular maintenance.
Another part you need to keep a close watch on is the hoses. If the fluid level is good and the pump is working properly, the hoses may be the culprit. Finally, you can take preventative measures by anticipating problems before they occur. If you notice the grip on the steering wheel is tight, you might have an issue. Other indicators include noises during turns and difficulty steering.
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While it may not be the first thing you think of when you consider routine maintenance, it is very important to keep the exhaust system in good working order. If it is not checked on regularly, it could begin to send out harmful emissions that contain dangerous carbon monoxide levels.
The first indicator would be the Check Engine light. While this could signify several different things - usually an oil change - the emission system might be the culprit. You can have an On-Board Diagnostics test done to see exactly why the warning became active. Other reasons could be a loose gas cap, bad catalytic converters, and many more.
If you discover that a component of the exhaust system is broken, then you need to repair it as soon as possible. It doesn’t matter how small the piece is. Every element inside the mechanism plays a crucial role in the overall function.
Finally, any leak needs to be sealed immediately. Excessive heat, higher pressure, and even extreme vibrations can eventually lead to a leak. While the source could be a gasket, pipe, or even the manifold, it must be stopped quickly.
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If you are looking for ways to keep your vehicle looking fresh and new, then maintaining the exterior is key.
For people who commute to work every day, washing your car once a week is the first step to keeping the outside looking its best. Never use dish cleaners or housed detergents. These can damage the clear coat. Instead, only use solutions that are designed for automobiles.
To shield the paint from UV damage, you should also wax the transport twice a year. This will even keep bugs from sticking. If you have the means, an annual detailing service will be a great step to add as well.
Another thing you can do is keep your vehicle in a garage or carport. If you don’t have access to one, then a cover is a good option. This will prevent damage from exposure to the elements. Finally, you should perform a spot check regularly. Oxygen can play a significant role in the deterioration of your paint. You should be on the lookout for discoloration, peeling, scratches, dark patches, and dents.
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Did you know that the method you use for filling up your Ford vehicle can help or hurt the overall life expectancy? Surprisingly to some, fuel can make a world of difference with your car, truck, van, or SUV.
The first thing you should always make sure you are doing is to buy fuel at reputable service stations. The fastest way to find out if the location is good or not is to go inside and speak to someone who works there. Ask if the fuel is filtered at the pump. If it is, you should also inquire about how often the filters are changed out. Many places do not even have filters, which can leave you with dirty gasoline that will clog up the mechanisms. Others might not mix the solution properly, or they might add water to it - which is a major no-no.
Another maintenance tip you should follow is to never fill up while the tanker truck is still onsite. As the fuel is being pushed into the underground tanks, the disturbance will stir up sediment. This can cause problems with your vehicle’s filters and fuel injectors and lead to poor performance. Just come back the next day or go to another station.
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After you break in a new Ford vehicle, the care should not stop there. Considerate driving will not only prolong the life expectancy of your vehicle, but it will also make you feel better about yourself in the long run.
First, you should never rev your car when you turn on the ignition. This can age your engine prematurely. This is especially true during the winter. Leave the drag racing to the professionals! Also, accelerate slowly when you begin to move. The most wear and tear on a motor happens during the initial 10 to 20 minutes of operation.
Contrary to popular belief, you should not allow your engine to idle to “warm it up†before travel. This can lead to incomplete fuel combustion, oil contamination, soot deposits inside the cylinders, and even damaged elements.
Another great tip is to shift into neutral while you wait at a red light. Avoid driving at high speeds especially in extreme weather, and never hit a pothole or a curb. Finally, consolidate short trips instead of dividing them up throughout the day.
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If you have recently purchased a Ford vehicle that has little to no mileage on the odometer, then you may be wondering if there are any tips to breaking the vehicle in. Luckily, there are a few preventative maintenance steps you can take to make the process easy and painless.
First, you must be patient with your model. The goal is to make it last as long as possible after driving off the dealership lot. During the initial 1,600 km (1,000 miles), it is best to keep your top speed under 88 km/h (55 mph). This gives all of the oils and fluid a chance to run through the corresponding systems and lubricate the mechanisms properly.
Next, you should avoid towing trailers or loading up the roof rack. Excess weight can take a toll on the new powertrain. It is better to wait until you break that 1,600 km marker before adding anything extra.
Another tip is not to let the vehicle idle for too long. This prevents oil from getting into every part of the engine, which can be bad. Finally, don’t push the pedal to the metal, Use light to medium acceleration - keeping the RPMs under 3,000.
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