Most 16-year-old teenagers cannot wait to get their driver's license and their first car. You are finally getting some independence and do not need your parents to drive you around. However, some teenagers underestimate the responsibility of owning a vehicle. Read on to find out what maintenance you must have done on your vehicle.

Inspect And Replace Your Timing And Serpentine Belts

You must inspect and replace your timing and serpentine belts on a regular basis. A timing belt synchronizes the rotation of the camshaft and crankshaft to allow your engine's valves to close and open at the right time. A serpentine belt is one continuous belt that drives multiple peripheral devices in the engine. These peripheral devices include your air conditioning compressor, alternator, air pump, water pump, and power steering pump.

Your timing and serpentine belts should be replaced between 60,000 to 100,000 miles. You can find the exact mileage by looking at your vehicle owner's manual. When your car reach this mileage, you should have it inspected by an auto service company. Your mechanic can tell you whether or not your belts need to be replaced.

Change Your Brake Pads

As a driver, you must be aware of your surroundings and the sounds that your vehicle makes. You have to rely on your ears when it comes to replacing your brake pads. If you hear squeaks, squeals, and grinding when braking, then these are signs that your brake pads are worn. Brake pads usually must be replaced after 50,000 miles, but it can be sooner.

Check Your Oil And Change It Regularly

You need to learn how to check your oil. If not, you can take your vehicle to a mechanic. It helps to know the difference between muddy, murky, and clean oil. Knowing this information can help you determine when something is wrong with your engine. You also must change your oil on a regular basis. This is done after your vehicle reaches a certain mileage.

Regular maintenance extends the life of your engine and helps you save on expensive auto repair services. If you have experience with working on cars, then you can do your own maintenance. On the other hand, first time vehicle owners who lack repair skills should take their vehicle to an auto repair company for service.

Owning a car is more complex than just driving. You must have money for insurance, to perform maintenance, and to make repairs.

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