Undertaking auto parts replacement is highly recommended as part of routine vehicle maintenance. The wear and tear of automotive parts is predictable and a common occurrence. Vehicle replacement parts and components include the fuel filter, battery, brake pads, spark plugs, and tire. The rate at which these components are replaced depends on a variety of factors, including the vehicle class (make, model and year), kind of driving (highway or city driving), number of miles, and climatic conditions. The way you drive can also cause components like the brake pad to last longer or wear out quickly. Drivers can enhance safety by installing gadgets like the automatic emergency braking sensor. Learn about the most commonly replaced car parts and when to have them changed:
Battery
The car battery operates by charging and discharging energy. As the battery runs and degrades, the performance will falter, and the risk of failure increases. If the car stalls while you are on the road, a jump start will be required. Battery failure is often caused by poor driving habits, acid stratification, low charge, which may be attributed to engine starter, lights, and onboard electronics. A good battery will last several years. For effective performance, have the battery and charging system inspected annually for signs of weakness.
Fuel Filter
The filter is vital in eliminating incidental contaminants that may slip into the fuel tank or fuel system. If present, the contaminants could pose serious problems, including damaging the car engine. Fuel filters usually become ineffective over time due to accumulated dirt, rust, and dust that clog and restrict efficient fuel flow. For brand new cars or cars in very good condition, the filter should be replaced every few years. If you drive an old car, have the fuel filter replaced every 20,000 to 50,000 miles or as indicated by the car expert.
Brake Pads/Rotors
The brake pad and rotor operate by friction. These components work together to produce sufficient force to stop a car. Rotors specifically have a role in preventing the overheating of the braking system. After a length of time, the rotor will wear down as a result of friction from adjoining brake pads and calipers. The components can last a few years and are normally replaced as needed. For the best results, have both the brake pads and rotor replaced at the same time while ensuring vehicle inspection is performed regularly. Also, take time to read the owner’s manual to learn more about the specific recommendations.
Ball Joints
Ball joints are a vital component in the car suspension system and will impact how the vehicle steers. The component should only be replaced when required. With proper care and maintenance, the ball joint can last for the entire lifetime of the car. The lifespan of the ball joint is mainly determined by driving conditions. For instance, the joint will wear out quickly if you consistently drive on rough roads, harsh terrain, and poor weather. Some of the danger signs to watch include; excessive popping and smashing sound. It is highly advisable to check the ball joints every time you perform a suspension system inspection.
Engine Oil and Filter
Regularly changing the oil and filter will guarantee vehicle longevity and boost performance. A fresh stream of oil will also go a long way to revitalize the components of your car engine. The timelines for replacing the engine oil are usually pre-set at intervals lasting months and thousands of miles. If your vehicle has an oil-life monitoring system, a warning sign will appear when things are not ok. Remember, over-extending the oil change could result in engine damage, poor fuel mileage, and poor performance.
Spark Plugs
The spark plug is a vital component of the car engine since it is responsible for the ignition of fuel and air mixture. A problematic spark plug will make it difficult to start the vehicle, slow acceleration, and create rough idling and misfiring. When you notice any of these troubling signs, it is advisable to replace the spark plugs. The rate at which the spark plug can be changed will vary from one vehicle to the other. Experts recommend 60,000 miles for modern cars like Subaru WRX STI, an upgrade of the all-wheel drivetrain Subaru Impreza.
Conclusion
It is important to recognize that cars, like all the other machines, contain parts and components that ultimately wear down and require timely replacement to keep the vehicle in top form. The specific maintenance and replacement timelines will generally vary based on the vehicle (make, model and year), the information contained on the owner’s manual, and driving habits and conditions. For proper maintenance, consider taking your car to the shop for specialized maintenance where custom tuning will be performed alongside additional services like detailed car cleaning and road testing.
