ACDelco Canada • Simple Car Care Tips

Simple Car Care Tips

Start your vehicle and get moving: The faster you get the engine up to its proper operating temperature, the better.

Eliminate roll shifting: Always come to a complete stop before shifting from Drive into Reverse or vice versa.

Use your parking brake on hills: When you set the parking brake and the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will come on. To prevent any damage to your brake system, make sure the parking brake is fully released and the warning light is off before driving.

Don't ride the clutch: If your vehicle is equipped with a manual transmission, improperly releasing the clutch pedal, pushing it too far or not far enough, or riding it at the point of engagement can damage parts. Strive for smooth, seamless shifting.

Fill your tank: Allowing your gas tank to run dry or be consistently low can lead to problems. Fuel pumped from a relatively dry tank may carry oxygen, moisture and deposits into the fuel line, and this could damage the fuel filter or fuel pump. It's best to fill your tank any time it's less than one-third full.

Beware of additives: Mixing additives into oil, transmission fluid or gasoline may upset the chemical balances that already exist in these fluids. Stay away from additional additives unless recommended by your service consultant.

Choose soap designed for clearcoat paint finishes: The presence of abrasives could weaken the clearcoat and dull the finish. Dishwashing detergent can be hazardous to your vehicle's finish. Soaps made for today's clearcoat finishes are available at auto parts stores, grocery stores or drug store chains.

Follow your vehicle's maintenance schedule: It's best to change your oil, filters and spark plugs and to conduct other maintenance as outlined in your Owner's Manual.