Filters, Wipers and Coolant

Back Next

Replace the coolant every other year. While it may look fine, rust and other particulates - known by the scientific term, crud - build up in it and can result in plugging the narrow passages of the radiator or heater. Cheaper to replace the fluid than those parts.

Replace fuel filters after 20,000 miles, or so. Note that some cars have two filters, one near the gas tank and another in the engine compartment. Replace them both if your car has them. Plugged fuel filters can lead to degraded or irregular highway performance. Make a note of how many fuel filters your vehicle has in your log.

Replace the air filter after 20,000 miles, or so. If you drive a lot in dusty, desert or arid areas, replace the filter after 5,000 to 10,000 miles or at least have it looked at. A plugged air filter, or one with insufficient flow, can cause poor engine performance and excessive engine wear.

Inspect the wipers once a month. They should be as compliant and flexible as a corrupt politician. If you look at the very edge of the wiper where it contacts the glass, it should have a sharp, square profile. If the edges appear rounded, it’s time for new blades.

Wipers should be replaced when they don’t wipe anymore. Lest you think Dr. Dipstik is engaging in witticism, you should be made rigidly aware that they may not be cleaning well because of the accretion of gunk on the glass they are wiping and not because of some mechanical malfeasance. Simple window cleaning may be all that’s necessary.

Back Next