Mercedes Maintenance
Advice On Maintaining A Mercedes
Owners of “old faithful” routinely maintain their vehicles to keep them in safe running condition, a practice that can significantly extend the vehicle’s lifespan. If you start with a superbly engineered car, like a Mercedes Benz, you can achieve amazing longevity. 2.8 million miles were clocked by a 1976 Mercedes-Benz 240D in Greece before it was retired to the Mercedes-Benz museum in Germany. Although reaching seven figure mileage is an exception, following the manufacturer’s Mercedes-Benz maintenance schedule will ensure your car has a longer service life.
Heat, humidity, rain and UV rays can damage rubber, break down fluids, crack dashboards, and fade paint. Be sure to read the fine print about cars located in high-heat areas when checking the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.
1. Hoses and Belts.
A cooling hose burst or a timing belt snap can ruin your whole day and put a serious dent in your wallet. If the hoses look fat or spongy, they need to be replaced. Check all of your belts for cracks and nicks. You may as well replace all of them if one needs replacing and save the labor cost later.
2. Fluids and Filters
An engine’s oil and its oil filter need to be changed regularly since oil is its lifeblood. Your engine also requires air and clean fuel. Make sure the air filter and fuel filter are regularly changed. The heat from the environment, engine and brakes can degrade the fluids that control your transmission, steering, and braking. Check those levels regularly. Clean your radiator annually.
3. Tires
AAA estimates that 80% of non-commercial tires in Asia are underinflated. In addition to creating more friction and premature tire wear, low tire pressure reduces miles per gallon as well. An underinflated tire costs the driver approximately $600 in additional fuel costs. Keep the pressure in your tires at the recommended psi.
4. Vehicle Walk Around
Check the headlights, taillights, reverse lights, turn signals, emergency flashers, and brake lights occasionally with a friend. A burnt out brake light is no reason to have a LTA pull you over.
5. Lather on the UV Protection
Alternatively, the automotive equivalent. Keep your car clean and use a wax that protects against UV rays. Cleaning the interior is more difficult. Keeping your windows tinted is a great defense, but even with them, you should protect the trim with a UV protectant like Armorall or a leather treatment.
