People who own a used car in Abu Dhabi are most likely going to visit their trusted car mechanic for regular repair work. However, with a little bit of elbow grease, some know-how, and a basic toolbox, you might be able to take care of some of the minor maintenance tasks.
1. Check tire pressure
Make sure your tires are not over or under-inflated. Under-inflation can have an impact on your driving experience or even damage the tires. It can also reduce your gas mileage by 0.2%. On the other hand, over-inflated tires result in decreased traction.
– What you will need
The only item required for checking your tire pressure is a tire pressure gauge, which you can easily get from your local supermarket. The job isn’t too technical and time spent is definitely worth it since properly inflated tires result in increased safety, improved fuel economy, and lengthened tire life.
– When to check tire pressure
Besides doing so periodically, the best time to check tire pressure is before embarking on a long road-intensive trip or when there is a change in temperature. Tire experts suggest checking tire pressure when it gets too hot.
2. Change a flat tire
We often find ourselves with flat tires at the most unexpected times and places. It is absolutely infuriating to call someone else or wave to someone on the road to stop and change it for you. Learning to change a flat tire is an imperative skill. It’s an easy skill that every car owner should learn.
– What you will need
Many of the tools to change a tire should already be in the back of your trunk. If not, make sure it’s there for the rainy day. You should have an extra tire, lug wrench, wheel wedges, jack, reflective triangles/ safety flares, gloves and a flashlight.
– Take safety precautions
You should remember certain safety measures while changing the tire. Make sure your car is in park mode or the handbrake is pulled, only place the car jack in the grooves on the underside of your car, loosen and tighten the lug nuts before the car is lifted, and do not place any part of your body under the car.
3. Fix a fuse
Don’t you hate it when you’re out on a road trip with your pals and the interior light, indicators, or radio won’t turn on? These are most likely due to a blown fuse. Once you learn the basics of replacing a blown fuse, all these tasks will only take a few minutes to fix. The car manual is a great place to start the process of replacing a fuse. Keep in mind that it’s always better to let a qualified professional handle electrical work.
4. Install new windshield wiper blades
Even though the market where you will go and buy the replacement windshield wipers will also have someone who can put them on for you, it is still a valuable skill to learn.
– Which ones to buy
You won’t have to wait and it may save you some money. First, make sure you buy original and good-quality wipers. Don’t let cheap wiper blades attract you because they might not work properly or last long enough.
These are just some of the simple tasks you can learn as the owner of a used car in Abu Dhabi. If you are looking for reliable cars in Abu Dhabi, check out some of the options on CarSwitch.com!
