Paul Messam, Gleaner Writer

Preventative maintenance is certainly the way to go. It refers to the care the motor vehicle should get to prevent trouble later. "This means not only day-to-day care, but the periodic attention a car needs at a gas station, or at a garage" says mechanic Fabian Eccleston. "A motor vehicle is a complex package of many parts, and each year it becomes even more complicated." Like any machine, it occasionally breaks down. These mechanical failures cause inconvenience and expense for the owner.

Driver Awareness

Before starting the engine, clean the windshield, headlights and taillights if they are dirty. Remove any glass or other objects on the pavement that would damage the tyres. Carefully observe whether any of the tyres seem softer than the others. "A tyre that loses air can go flat without warning" advised Basil 'Singer B' Smith, a tyre repair specialist. "A tyre is much easier, safer and cheaper to change at home or at a service station than on highway, on a hill, on a dark road, especially in these challenging times" says Mr. Smith. Check the tyre pressure at least once a month with a good tyre gauge. A motorist should not depend on the air pressure gauge at the air pump. Many of these are out of service and this can be quite frustrating.

If the day looks like rain, check the windshield wipers and washers. If you plan to drive after dark, make sure to check headlights and all the other lights. Make a check on the horn. With ignition on, gauges and warning lights should come on. After starting the engine, check your instruments and gauges again. All lights should now be off. If the fuel gauge shows less than half, be sure to stop soon and top up or fill up based on 'pocket'. As you start to drive, press on the brake pedal before shifting to note the 'feel' of it. The pedal should be firm, not spongy or soft, and should not be lower than 2 to 3 inches from the floor.

While driving, listen keenly and smell greedily for any unusual noises, odours, and vibrations or thumping, which are signs that something is wrong with your motor vehicle. Any change in the steering, braking or accelerating responses should receive immediate attention. Take note of the instrument panel, this is this also a part of the visual pattern while driving.

At the Gas Station

While at the gas station, when filling or topping up, it is advisable to turn off the engine. Remember to never smoke while you are at the gas station. At the gas station, ensure that you clean the windshield and outside mirror. Check battery, oil level and coolant level in the coolant recovery tank. A motorist does need to remove the radiator cap. The coolant level should be slightly above the 'full' mark on the tank.

Purchase the brand of fuel with an octane rating that is just enough to prevent engine knocking or 'pinging' during normal driving. A car that runs well is safer, costs less to operate, and is less likely to inconvenience its owner on the road, day or night, rain or shine.