How to Prevent Breakdowns on the Road

It is amazing that many auto breakdowns that occur while on the road could have been avoided with some simple and regular car maintenance. That seems obvious, but yet it is common to see a car stranded on the side of the road with the owner impatiently waiting for assistance. Most people would agree it is much nicer to be sitting in the comfort of the home or office while the car is being maintained rather than stuck on the roadside with a car not going anywhere until repaired.

Preventing breakdowns on the road requires common sense approaches to auto maintenance. Many breakdowns are not related to the fact today’s car engines are more complex or involve sophisticated components. Cars still break down today because fluids are allowed to reach low levels or simple repairs are not taken care of in a timely manner. In other words, many breakdowns are simply the end result of failing to properly maintain the most basic functions.

The Psychic Mobile Mechanic

The mobile mechanic may seem a bit psychic, because he or she can look into the future and “know” events most likely to take place without engine, component, and system routine maintenance. Preventing breakdowns begins with completing routine tasks.

* Keep all fluids at proper levels including oil, transmission, and brake fluids
* Check belts, such as serpentine and fan belts, and hoses, such as radiator hoses, for signs of cracking or fraying
* Check the tires for proper inflation
* Check the brakes for signs of wear such as worn pads
* Check the battery terminals for corrosion
* Verify air conditioning system is operating properly
* Keep filters cleaned and free of blockages
* Check shocks

These are the routine tasks though in the newest vehicles even many of the most routine tasks require specialised equipment and tools. Even if you decide to do as many of these systems, fluid, and filter checks yourself, the odds are an auto mechanic will need to actually do the maintenance work unless you have an equipped auto workshop at home.

Changing the Future

The mobile mechanic drives a fully equipped van which contains everything needed to do routine maintenance and diagnostic testing. The general diagnostic testing should be completed periodically to uncover developing mechanical or component problems which could lead to a breakdown.

* Change oil
* Replace fluids
* Inflate tires
* Complete diagnostic testing of transmission, electrical system, engine, fuel injection system, and air conditioner
* Test battery charge
* Flush and refill cooling system with specified coolant
* Replace worn belts and hoses
* Replace air and fuel filters
* Treat fuel system to clean components such as intake valves and combustion chamber
* Install new shocks

If the diagnostic testing produces fault codes, the mobile mechanic can perform necessary repairs before the car breaks down. It is so much better to stop a problem which can lead to an inoperable auto. Everyone knows that cars break down at the most inopportune times and in the worst locations. It is just one of life’s many mysteries.

Regular inspection and maintenance of your auto will keep it running smoothly and increase its reliability. Just as important is the fact regular engine and auto system maintenance will extend the life of your vehicle. This is important when you consider new autos are becoming more and more expensive.

The mobile car mechanic may not be psychic, but it sure seems that way when he or she can change the future by taking care of the present.