3 Preventative Maintenance Practices to Remember After Auto Mechanic School
In addition to repairs, you might find yourself completing several maintenance procedures as an auto mechanic. Preventative maintenance refers to any service that helps to keep a customer’s car in good working order, preventing roadside breakdowns, risks to safety, and expenditure on serious damage to their vehicle. The level of knowledge among your customers will vary vastly, with some having a good understanding of necessary maintenance practices and others being completely unaware. This is why as a future auto mechanic, part of your role involves suggesting preventative services during your follow-ups.
If you’re curious about what preventative maintenance involves, keep reading to learn about three essential practices you should use after training.
1. Always Check Fluid Levels After Automotive School
Fluids play a crucial role in the operation of a vehicle, particularly when it comes to fuel efficiency and longevity–two factors that have a big effect on your customers’ wallets. During routine checks and repairs, be sure to check a vehicle’s engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid, and coolant.
When fluid levels are neglected for too long, the power, fuel efficiency, and resale value can decline. In addition, repair costs will stack up since, without adequate fluids, mechanical parts won’t receive enough lubrication to operate smoothly, causing damage down the line. Keeping fluids topped up for your customers after auto mechanic school is a great way to show that keeping their vehicles in top condition is your priority.
2. Suggest Check-Ups When the Seasons Change
Here in Canada, drivers need to deal with changing seasons and all of the extra car maintenance tasks that come with it. But seasonal maintenance doesn’t end with installing snow tires. Inspecting a car’s wheel alignment, exhaust system, and tire rotation also enhances the safety of a vehicle for harsh winter driving. Though it doesn’t often cross most people’s minds, a spring checkup is also a great idea. As Canadians come out of the hibernation of winter, they may plan to use their vehicles a lot more for road trips and other activities. It’s the perfect time to check the overall function of a vehicle and make any needed adjustments before they hit the road.
3. Be Sure to Inspect Belts and Hoses Regularly
The belts and hoses of a vehicle serve very important functions. Belts transport the power from a car’s engine to other mechanical parts. Meanwhile, hoses supply a vehicle’s mechanical parts with the fluids they need to stay properly lubricated. When belts and hoses are damaged, there is a significant risk of sudden damage that can leave drivers stranded. The cost of repairs is an additional factor.
Check belts by visually inspecting them and listening for any squealing noises when the vehicle is turned on. To check hoses, pinch them and be on the lookout for holes. Also, watch out for excessive smoke and poor acceleration when driving. Learn more about preventative maintenance practices in our automotive service technician training, where you will receive hands-on training on automotive diagnostics and repair.
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