Check brake fluid monthly.
Wipe dirt from the master cylinder lid before you open it. If you need fluid,
add the type recommended by your car’s maker. Never substitute other fluids,
such as transmission or power-steering fluid. And don’t use brake fluid from a
previously opened container. Once exposed to air, brake fluid absorbs moisture
and contaminates easily.
The advent of electronic
ignition and on-board computers has eliminated the need for regular tune-ups,
but you still need to change your spark plugs. Many manufacturers recommend
changing plugs every 30,000 or 40,000 miles to ensure good fuel mileage and
engine performance. Some new cars come with long-life plugs (sometimes called
double platinum plugs) that can last for 100,000 miles. If your car isn’t so
equipped, make the switch after 30,000 miles or the recommended mileage found
in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. The extra cost is only a few dollars per
spark plug. While you’re at it, you can take a little extra time to change your
spark plug wires as well, as they typically last around 50,000 miles.
Deteriorated wires can cause those high-tech new spark plugs to foul quicker
than you’d like.
