If not changed, the oil loses its qualities until it causes serious problems for the engine and even breakage.
Oil is one of the most important parts of any vehicle, popularly known as ‘the blood of the engine’. If not changed, the oil loses qualities until it causes serious problems for the engine and even breakage. An oil change plus filters can cost more than 80 euros, but if an engine breaks down due to lack of maintenance, the breakdown can be up to 4,000 euros if second-hand parts are used. In the case of his
a new enginethe
amount will rise to 8,000
But
there are six critical points more in that maintenance before the summer holidays, with the aim that drivers invest in peace of mind, will be essential.
The first of these, according to Euromaster, is the timing belt, a fundamental part of the vehicle whose defect in 95% of cases is synonymous with a rupture of pistons, valves and cylinder head, which in many cases is the rupture of the entire engine. The price of its replacement varies between 350-800 euros, but its breakage would require a major repair of not less than 1,500 euros, and could go up to 4,000 in the case of replacement of the engine with second-hand parts. If the engine is new, it can go up to 8,000 euros.
If the brake pads are not replaced in time, it can lead to a serious safety problem and consequently damage to the brake discs, causing a more expensive breakdown. In addition, if the pads are exhausted, the shrill sound they produce when they rub against the disc will increase. A new set of pads usually costs between 80 and 110 euros, but if the discs are damaged, the cost is multiplied by three, about 300 euros.
Brake fluid is often exposed to large temperature fluctuations, so proper maintenance is essential. It is generally recommended to replace it every one or two years. At the same time, the brake fluid lubricates the internals of the master cylinder and, in some cases, the regulator. If the maintenance is not correct, in addition to problems with stopping the vehicle in time, we may have damage to the master cylinder. A fluid change costs about 45-70 euros, but if the brake pump is damaged, this amount can rise to 600 euros.
On the other hand, tire alignment is a simple process that allows the steering angles to be adjusted according to the manufacturer’s specifications, thus guaranteeing the vehicle’s direction of travel and its good dynamic behaviour. Preferably, adjust the steering once a year to drive safely and to ensure that the tires are fully used. Otherwise, poor steering adjustment will not only seriously affect safety, but also significantly shorten the life of the tires, even reducing their life by 90%. The price of an alignment is about 50-70 euros, but a set of two tires can range from 200 to 500, depending on the car.
Proper air conditioning in the passenger compartment is especially important in the warm months. It is relatively unknown that the oil that lubricates the air conditioning compressor is mixed with the gas in the air itself. This gas must not only change the temperature when exposed to different pressures, but also lubricate the compressor. Therefore, manufacturers recommend charging the air conditioner every 2-4 years. A gas charge is about 50-70 euros, but if it is not renewed and the compressor breaks down, the bill rises to about 450 euros.
Finally, the coolant is responsible for absorbing the calories in the engine and discharging them into the radiator. If it cannot perform this process, the propellant will suffer great damage, as the cylinder head gasket will burn or directly affect the engine. The replacement usually costs around 50-70 euros, while a cylinder head repair can run up to around 2,500 euros, depending on the model.
Source: La Verdad
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
