Diamond Enthusiast
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All and all I agree, the coolant is an issue with me, oil changes - well, I know an auto can run on the dirtiest of oils, it isn't wise since dirt means particles which means wear and tear. I always err on the side of caution and switch out the fluids often. They are rally not that expensive, and I believe that keeping the fluids clean will ultimately mean less wear and tear on the engine.
As for going to the Dealership when it comes time for repair. My personal experience is that the dealership charges more and does not necessarily have good mechanics. Further, going through big chains (Midas, pep-boys, etc) doesn't mean their mechanics are spot on either.
Though I do all the tune ups, oil changes, and have changed brake pads on our vehicles, there are many times when I can not do the work myself (such as transmission work).
My mechanic and I have a 'relationship' he was recommended by a friend, who has gone to this guy for years with several cars. I have had no problem with this guy - but then, we have a relationship - one that is built upon the trust of previous work done.
I choose the 'ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure method' - which means even if the fan belt looks in good condition, it is replaced during the annual tune up I do. (I do an annual tune up do to the age of our vehicles and the miles that are placed on them - newer models are self tuning with all that computer stuff they got)
I use regular gas for my vehicles. If we are planning a trip to the mountains, I get the additives for the fuel from inside - There are many, if you read the labels you learn what it is they claim to do. Octane can be changed readily enough by buying a bottle of the octane additive.
One thing that this article didn't tell you is that the gasoline you get at Shell and Chevron is the same gasoline sold at a little guy who can charge up to 20 cents less per gallon. All the gasoline is piped over the greater distances, it is at the individual trucking stations that certain additives are added to the fuels. Most of these additives can be found inside any gas station.
I do invest in the 'engine' cleaning additive every six months - it is reputed to remove carbon build up - which for an older vehicle has been a real problem in my experience.
Learning about the basics, how to change oil, how to change a tire, knowing how to open and check the battery for fluids, even knowing how to drain and flush a radiator can save you lots of money in the long run. Except for tire changing, being able to check fluids requires no special tools - even the changing of fluids can be done with regular house hold tools.
One can tell, by looking at the dip stick if the oil needs to be changed, one can look inside the cold radiator and tell if the fluid is dirty or not.
Boning up on some of the jargon may in fact save you money at the mechanics. I hate to say it but there are mechanics and companies which will convince you to do things which really do not need to be done. If you d not know your Ball joint from your detent cable, you may find yourself paying out the nose.
I keep an inventory of work done, tune ups, miles, even how much gasoline our 65 Mustang and out 77 Suburban burns. We keep all the work orders and bills in a file for each one IN THE GLOVE COMPARTMENT - that way we know what has been done and when and we have the information with us if we find ourself at the side of the road waiting for a tow.
Keeping track of mileage isn't that hard, as long as your remember to look at the odometer once in a while. You'd be amazed at how all those little trips add up to lots of miles quickly.
All in all I say that this article gives lots of good advice.
Cheers
David
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