| Tire pressure |
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| What happens if my tire pressure is too high? |
| If your tire pressure is too high, your tires are over-inflated and have less contact with the road. This gives your tires less grip and traction, so it decreases your braking power and increases your effective stopping distance. Notice that over-inflation also increases tire wear and exposes your tires to damages from objects on the road and potholes. Your ride will not be nearly as comfortable either because your tires are “bouncing” on the road. |
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| What happens if my tire pressure is too low? |
| Now you have the opposite situation and too much of your tire is in contact with the road. This makes your tire hot and may result in overheating. In the worst case scenario, this may cause tire failure. Take notice that under inflation also increases tire wear on the tread at the edges and decreases your fuel economy. |
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| What happens if i have uneven tire pressure? |
| If your tire pressures are not equal, your car will pull to the left or the right. You will feel this pull through your steering wheel. |
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| What is my correct tire pressure? |
| Your recommended tire pressure is printed on a sticker in your glove compartment, door jamb or fuel-filler door. This is the ideal pressure for the tires when used on your specific model vehicle. Note: The pressure on the tire wall is the MAXIMUM allowable air pressure, not the recommended pressure. |
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| Battery |
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| What is the average life of a battery? |
The average life of a battery varies according to the type of vehicle you drive, the geographical region you live in, and your individual driving habits. That is why it is so hard to specify the average life of a battery. On the average, we can say that a battery lasts three years and a half.
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| Windshield wipers |
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| What is the average life of windshield wipers? |
| Windshield wipers should be changed every 9,500 to 16,000 km. After that time being, they become damaged or worn and can be a safety hazard. They impair your visibility and consequently reduce your reaction time in the event of an accident. |
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| Can we replace only the blade on the windshield wipers? And if so, how? |
| Yes, you can replace only the blades by gently lifting the wiper arm and rotate the blade at the pivot. Pinch the release tab on the wiper blade and slide the blade assembly out from the hook and out of the wiper arm. Slide on a replacement blade of the same length and gently push until locking tab clicks into place. |
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| Oil changes |
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| How often do I need to perform oil changes? |
For the great majority of car drivers, oil should be change every 4,800 km, but it is always better to refer to a specialist. Oil changes remove contaminants like carbon and metal from your engine. If you leave these contaminants there, they can slowly damage your engine and result in expensive repairs. This is why regular oil changes are important.
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| How often should I check my oil? |
| It is important to check your oil between oil changes too. Your Owner's Manual recommends that you check your oil each time you stop for gas. If your oil is below the ADD mark, always top it off. |
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| Steering system |
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| Why is my steering wheel pulling to the left or to the right? |
| If your steering wheel is pulling to the left or to the right, it may be that your suspension is out of alignment or that your tire pressure is unequal. |
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| Brakes |
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| Is it normal if I am forced to pump my brakes? |
| No, it is not normal to be forced to pump the brakes. It may be a leak in the brake system, air in the brake lines or you may need a brake adjustment. |
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| Why is my warning light on? |
| If your brake system warning light is on, you possibly have a hydraulic system malfunction. If your ABS light is on, the anti-lock system is not functioning. |
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| Accident |
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| What should I do after an accident? |
First of all, do not leave the scene. Ideally, you should remain in your car until the authorities arrive. You should call the police to take a report on the scene. Then, call for a tow. Always make sure you know what towing company is taking your car and where it is being towed.
If possible, you should call your insurance company from the scene of the accident. If you give them all the important information now, it will help them administer your claim. Finally, get an estimate on vehicle damage. You want to know what you (and your insurance company) are going to be paying. Any reputable repair shop will gladly review any questions you have regarding the required repairs.
Tip: Write down the important names and numbers you may need in the event of an accident and keep this information in your glove compartment. |
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