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Maintain Your Car for Mountain Driving

December 4, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

Denver is increasingly a popular place to live because of its outdoor activities. Summer or winter, sunshine or snow, if you want to stay active, Colorado is the place to do it. 

Of course, you’ll need a car to get you where you’re going. One that will handle well in all kinds of weather. Summer temperatures can creep into three digits. Winter snowfall is often measured by feet. That can be tough for any car to get through. Especially if you head up into the hills on a regular basis. 

Mountain driving is especially hard on cars. Instead of waiting for problems to arise, maintaining your car gives you an edge as you’re driving. You’ll know your car will handle steep inclines as you head to the ski slopes. You won’t worry about the brakes as you come back into Denver. 

Why mountain driving is hard on cars 

Mountain driving can be hard on cars for a number of reasons. 

Listen closely as you take the steep inclines and declines; it puts a lot of strain on a car’s engine, transmission, and brakes. The engine has to work harder to maintain speed uphill, while the transmission and brakes are constantly being used to slow the car down on the way back down. This extra wear and tear can lead to problems such as overheating, transmission failure, and brake failure.

Maintain Your Car for Mountain Driving

It’s not just about mechanical problems; there are a number of environmental factors that can make it difficult on cars too. The thin air at high altitudes can affect a car’s performance, as the engine may not get enough oxygen to run efficiently. Cold temperatures can also cause problems, as the oil and other fluids in a car’s engine may thicken and become less effective.

The winding and narrow roads of mountain terrain can make it difficult to navigate, especially for inexperienced drivers. The sharp turns and sudden drops can be intimidating and require careful maneuvering to avoid accidents. This can also put additional strain on a car’s suspension and steering components.

Whether you live in one of the nearby mountain towns, or you head up regularly for a day of fun, if you want to maintain your car for years of functionality, there are a few things you can do. 

How to maintain your transmission

Maintaining your transmission is important in order to ensure that your vehicle is running smoothly and efficiently. Some easy ways to maintain your transmission include:

Check the fluid level regularly. The transmission fluid is responsible for lubricating the gears and components of the transmission. If the fluid level is low, it can cause damage to the transmission. To check the fluid level, locate the dipstick, clean it off, reinsert it, and then check the level. The fluid should be at the correct level and have a pink or red color. If the fluid is dirty or low, it should be changed.

Change the transmission fluid and filter. Over time, the transmission fluid can become contaminated with dirt, debris, and other particles. This can lead to wear and tear on the transmission. It is recommended to change the transmission fluid and filter every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations and the type of transmission fluid being used.

Monitor the transmission for any unusual noises or problems. If you notice any strange noises coming from the transmission, such as grinding or whining, it is essential to have it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.

Avoid overloading your vehicle. Putting too much weight on your vehicle can put extra strain on the transmission and cause damage. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s weight limits for your vehicle.

Use the correct transmission fluid. Different types of transmission fluids are designed for specific types of transmissions. Using the wrong type of fluid can cause damage to the transmission.

How to maintain your brakes

Maintaining your brakes is an essential part of keeping your vehicle safe and roadworthy. Here are some steps you can take to ensure that your brakes are in good working order:

Check the brake fluid level regularly. The brake fluid level should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the brake fluid reservoir. If it’s low, top it off with the appropriate type of brake fluid.

Inspect the brake pads and rotors. Look for signs of wear or damage, such as thinning brake pads, grooves or scars on the rotors, or uneven wear on the pads. If the pads or rotors are worn, have them replaced by a mechanic.

Test the brakes regularly. Make sure that the brakes are working properly by testing them on a regular basis. You can do this by applying the brakes gently while driving at a low speed, and then more firmly at a higher speed. If the brakes feel spongy or unresponsive, or if the car pulls to one side when braking, have the brakes checked by a mechanic.

Clean the brake components. Dirt and debris can accumulate on the brake pads and rotors, which can reduce their effectiveness. Use a brake cleaner to remove any dirt or debris, and be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Check the brake lines. Make sure that the brake lines are in good condition and free of leaks. If you notice any fluid leaking from the lines, have them repaired or replaced by a mechanic.

How to maintain your car’s engine

Maintaining your car’s engine is essential to ensuring it runs smoothly. Here are some tips on how to keep your car’s engine efficient:

Regular oil changes. One of the most important things you can do to maintain your car’s engine is to change the oil regularly. Oil helps to lubricate the engine’s moving parts and prevent them from rubbing against each other, which can cause wear and tear. Most manufacturers recommend changing the oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, but you should consult your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.

Use high-quality oil and oil filters. It’s important to use high-quality oil and oil filters when changing your car’s oil. Cheap oil and filters can break down faster and may not provide the same level of protection as higher-quality options.

Keep an eye on fluid levels. In addition to oil, your car’s engine also relies on other fluids to function properly. These include coolant, transmission fluid, and brake fluid. Make sure to regularly check the levels of these fluids and top them off if necessary.

Follow a regular maintenance schedule. Your car’s manufacturer has likely provided a recommended maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual. It’s essential to follow this schedule to ensure your car’s engine gets the care it needs. This may include regular tune-ups, spark plug replacements, and other routine maintenance tasks.

Use the right fuel. It’s important to use the type of fuel recommended by your car’s manufacturer. Using the wrong kind of fuel can harm your car’s engine and decrease its performance.

Are you doing any mountain driving this year?

Before you head up into the hills for a day of fun, be sure your vehicle is in tip-top shape and is ready to handle mountain driving. Maintaining your vehicle is essential to keep you safe on the road. By caring for your engine, transmission, and brakes, you’ll be less likely to have a problem. 

When was the last time you had your car inspected? 

Filed Under: Car Maintenance Tagged With: Maintain Your Car

Express Car Care
4200 E. Evans Ave. Denver, CO (map)
Phone: (303) 691-2760
Located just southeast of the Colorado Light Rail station

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