A stitch in time saves nine

Lead in: The popular adage is true for car maintenance as well. Regular car inspection can help you prevent irreparable damage and depreciation in your car's value. Click here for a few pointers on inspection.

Inspect my car myself? Why should I do that when there are authorised service centres and garages for detailed inspection of my car?

Your point about car service centres and garages is a valid one. However, your role as a car owner comes into play during the period between two car services or checkups. Whether you have purchased a used car or indulged in a new one, basic car inspection at regular intervals can help maintain it well. Routine inspection coupled with general maintenance reduces the occurrences of frequent car failures. However, if you learn to inspect the basic mechanism yourself, unnecessary maintenance or car repair costs can be saved. Such regular scrutiny will also enable you to know your car's condition, empowering you in negotiating effectively for insurance premiums or a good resale price for your vehicle.

Before inspection:

• Study the car manual in-depth
• Consult with your car's authorised service centre in case of any doubts
• Wear the recommended safety gear like safety glasses, disposable gloves, protective footwear, etc. before inspection
• Be prepared with a basic toolkit for inspection

Before starting the examination of different car parts, conduct a cursory check of the car inside out. Start with the exteriors, checking carefully for dents or scratches, and then go on to the interiors for any irregularities on the dashboard, seats or floor of the car.

Inspection of specific car parts
The following are some inspection tips, which you can keep in mind for efficient maintenance of your vehicle:

Battery
Check the car battery and connected cables on a regular basis for corrosion, loose ends, abrasion, etc. Take precaution and do not expose the battery to open flames while inspecting it.

Brake fluid
Ensure adequate level of brake fluid in the brake master cylinder reservoir at all times. Add brake fluid as and when required but avoid overflowing the cylinder reservoir.

Tyres
While inspecting tyres, check for two aspects: inflation and alignment. You should inflate the tyres as per the recommended air pressure mentioned in the owner's manual, by using a tyre pressure gauge. If the alignment of the tyres is off, you need to visit an authorised service centre or nearest garage immediately. Also check the tyres for any damage like cuts or piercing of sharp objects.

Air filter
Air filter is the engine's first shield against contaminants and dirt that may damage the engine. You should hence inspect it on a monthly basis. If it is clogged, you need to clean or replace it.

Exhausts
Check the emission system once annually. In addition to this, you also need to inspect the exhaust pipes and clamps regularly.

Engine
Engine inspection should also be an important part of your regular car assessment. Use good quality engine oil and maintain an appropriate level. Also give a cursory glance to the oil filters and engine coolant level.

In addition to the maintenance tips mentioned above, examination of other parts like exterior car lamps, windshield, seat belts, steering fluid, etc. adds to the overall safety of the car. Do not ignore warning signs like noises, irregular vibrations or lights in your automobile.

It should be reiterated here that regular service and routine maintenance activity is crucial to keep you car in a good condition. Your visits to an authorised service centre should hence be etched into your calendar. Regular inspection is just an extra precaution on your part to ensure optimum performance of your vehicle.