It is a natural course with your car engine wear and tear affecting performance and car fuel consumption gets rises. Check out the following good practice car maintenance to enhance the longevity of your vehicle:

Cars are like humans, you need to keep them in tuned with the seasons. Remember to change to winter tires and add anti-freeze. Plug in your electric cord to warm up the engine half an hour before you start your journey.

And in summer, check your fluids too. The sun heats up and dries the fluids more quickly. Check your oil level, coolant fluids etc. Keep your car in a covered garage.

Sign Up For A Comprehensive Regular Tune-Up Package. The mechanics will do your oil change, change your air filters, check your spark plugs, radiator and fuel injector, test your brake pads, tire pressure, rotate your tires (if required) as well as tune your wheel alignment. Have the computerized system checked by your specialist mechanics. Life saving devices such as the air bags, antilock breaks etc must be checked for safety too.

Change Your Oil Every 3 Months Or 3,000 Miles. Here is a simple example to help you visualize. Imagine re-using the same pot of oil for deep-frying your French fries everyday for 3 weeks… the oil has become a thick crude of glob and your fries tastes weird doesn’t it? Same theory goes for your car. Revitalize your car engine with a fixed scheduled oil change routine.

Listen & Feel the Strange Warning Signs. Be conscious of squeaky noise, gasoline smell, and oil leaks on your garage floor. Check where the noise comes from. Early detection of car faults could save you a ton of money.

Befriend A Good Mechanic. Not only will you save money, you save yourself some anguish from unscrupulous mechanics some of whom change your good parts for bad or recommend unnecessary jobs. And now, get ready to enjoy the ride!

Be Environmentally Friendly – Money Saving Tips for Good Car Maintenance is a post from: GREEN TECHNOLOGY

1. Shut It Down
Unlike a desktop computer a laptop computer needs to be shut down when not in use. Shutting down when not in use prevents the laptop from overheating and it also needs the rents.

2. Adjusting Power Settings
Adjusting your power options will help your laptop from heating up when not in use even if for short periods of time. You can set your hard drive and display to turn off after a set time period. Another option is to set the laptop to go into standby or hibernate mode.

3. Before You Pack It Up
Make sure that you before you put your laptop into its carrying bag that it is shut down. A notebook that has been left on can melt. When enclosed in a notebook bag there is no air circulation and the results can be worse than melting. Don’t find out the hard way and just be sure to turn off your laptop.

4. Vent Maintenance
Part of your weekly routine should be to inspect and clean the air vents in your laptop. Forced air dusters can be used to keep the air vents clean and free from debris. It’s important to know that you should never push anything into the air vents.

5. Checking the Fan
Overheating problems can be caused by the laptop fan not working properly. Always check the laptop manufacturer’s online support and your warranty information. It may be possible to download software to test your laptop fan.

6. BIOS Updates
Some laptops control the fans through the BIOS. Check online with the laptop battery compaq PPB004A, manufacturer for BIOS updates. If you aren’t comfortable updating the BIOS yourself, have someone in your IT dept. or have an outside Computer Technician do it for you.

7. Avoid Lap Burn
Using a laptop desk or cooler will prevent you from being burned when using your laptop. A good laptop desk will have large enough vents for allowing air circulation between you and the laptop. Some laptop desks have additional fans which use power from the laptop itself to stay cool.

8. Soft Spots
It’s a wise idea not to use any soft material as a buffer between you and your laptopb. Always operate your laptop on a hard surface, preferably one that allows ventilation. Soft materials can block the airflow vents and cause it to overheat. If it is not possible to avoid using a soft surface, an optional heat sink base should be used to maintain cooling.

9. Unplug Accessories
Whenever your laptop will not be in use, even for short periods of time remember to unplug any accessories. Not only do they use power but they could cause the laptop to overheat. It’s especially important to unplug any accessories before packing your laptop in its carrying case. While you may believe it will make it quicker to use, it could damage your laptop, the accessory and/or your laptop bag.

Top 9 Laptop Computer Safety Tips is a post from: GREEN TECHNOLOGY

One of the first steps in preparing your car for a long trip is to begin with a thorough inspection of the tires. Check the tread all the way around each tire to make sure the wear is even. There should be plenty of tread left which allows for maximum control of the vehicle on slippery roads while breaking. If the tires are not worn evenly, it may be a good idea to replace them before hitting the road. Make sure that your front end is aligned and the new tires are balanced at the same time.

It is also important to make sure that the car has fresh fluids and filters of all types. This means you should have the oil filter changed and fresh oil placed into the engine. For cars that have high mileage, make sure to use a motor oil that is especially formulated for engines that have seen a lot of action.

Also make it a point to check the transmission fluid as well. Low levels could indicate a leak that should be addressed before taking the automobile far from home. In any event, if it has been some time since the fluid was changed, have it done. Knowing that the car is unlikely to run low on fluid can provide a peace of mind, as well as help the transmission to perform at optimum levels during the trip.

Do not forget the other fluids in the vehicle. Brake and power steering fluids should be checked and changed if necessary. The radiator should also be checked to make sure there is plenty of fluid and that the balance between water and coolant is within acceptable limits.

One fluid many drivers overlook when getting ready for a road trip is the windshield washer fluid. Make sure the reservoir is full and that the fluid moves through the jets with no problem. The ability to keep the windshield clean while driving is extremely important to your safety.

Checking all of your hoses is also very important. A failed hose can leave you stranded in parts unknown and ruin your trip. Make sure the body of each hose is still strong, without any leaks. You should also check that the hoses are securely connected to the correct engine components. If any hose do not seem quite right, it is best to have it replaced. This can help prevent any problems that may occur.

Continue the preparation by checking various other components, such as taillights, lamps, signal lights, and various fuses. Include an inspection of the fan belt and any other belts that may be present in the engine. The idea is to make sure every system on the car is working properly before you pull out of the driveway.

Once on the road, you still need to perform regular maintenance each day. Whenever you stop for gasoline, make it a point to check oil and transmission fluid levels. You can also take a quick look at the levels of washer fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. Do not check the fluid level in the radiator until the car engine has cooled down. A good time to check these fluid levels is first thing each morning before you get back on the road.

In order to help you stay on track with your on-the-road maintenance, invest in a simple car tool kit. Many auto supply stores offer these kits; you can also purchase one online with relative ease. The kits include necessities such as replacement lamps, heat resistant tape to deal with a leaky hose, extra fuses, and even a spare fan belt for the radiator. Basic tools such as screwdrivers and wrenches are often included. Most of these kits fit neatly into a corner of the trunk of the car, making them easily accessible should you need them.

It also never hurts to take along a few extras components, just in case they are needed. Having a container with a mixture of water and coolant could come in handy if the engine overheats on a lonely stretch of road. An extra can of oil and a small container of transmission fluid should be stored in the trunk as well. By preparing the car properly and checking all systems at least every other day during the trip, you have an excellent chance of making your complete trip without any serious problems with your vehicle.

Car Maintenance Tips for Long Trips is a post from: GREEN TECHNOLOGY

1. Check Engine Oil

Critical to an automobile’s lubrication system, the engine oil lubricates a car’s moving parts, cleans and inhibits corrosion, and also cools the engine by carrying heat away from the parts.

To check engine oil, Turn off the car’s ignition. Locate the dipstick, in case you don’t know where it is take the help of the owner’s manual and then remove the dipstick. Most dipstick carry the label “engine oil.”

Wipe off any excess oil and then check dip it another time to see if it reaches the “Full” mark or not. If not then you need to fill up to reach the “Full” mark.

Now, observe the color of the engine oil. A black an opaque appearance means time for a change. Dark brown but somewhat transparent means you’d need to change it after some time. A clear appearance means it’s OK, but be wary if it appears to be whitish, as that might indicate a need for a professional check up.

To replace engine oil, choose the product that’s already inside your car. Pour in slowly allowing it time to settle down. After you’re done, replace the dipstick properly.

2. Check Automatic Transmission Fluid

To run a check for automatic transmission fluid change the transmission lever’s position to Park of ‘P’ position. Locate the transmission dipstick, in case you don’t know where it is take the help of the owner’s manual and then remove the transmission dipstick. Wipe it and dip it again to check the levels.

Also look at the appearance of the fluid. A black fluid with a burnt smell is a sign that it needs a quick change. If its brown in color, then there’s still some life in it. In comparison a newly replaced fluid is red in color.

Aside from the appearance, refer to the owner’s manual as well. As some manufacturers specify the number of miles you can drive before a refill is needed.

3. Check Engine Coolant

This is a simple procedure. To perform the check simply locate the coolant overflow tank and note the levels.

Low coolant level will cause the engine to overheat, which may cause serious damage to the engine. If the levels are between “LOW” and “FULL” markings, then it’s OK. If it’s below the “LOW” marking, then naturally a replacement is needed.

4. Check CV Joint Boots

A majority of modern day automobiles are front wheel drive, wherein a CV joint’s job is to help in transmitting power to the wheels.

To check the CV joint for breakage or damage, you’d need to inspect the internal sides of the wheel. To make it easier for you, first turn the wheel to one side as much as it can turn. Now, look at the inside to inspect the front wheel arch. If your inspection reveals oil or greasing on the boot, it means that it’s broken. If it dry then there’s nothing to worry about. If it’s broken, then treat it as an emergency and arrange for a replacement.

5. Check Tire Pressure

Taking good care of wheels & tires is simple, very basic and very important. The point is to check air pressure without fail at least once a month. It might be a good idea if you purchased a tire pressure gauge, so that you can check the pressure any time by yourself. Another key consideration is to ensure the ideal tire pressure (as has been prescribed by the car manufacturer).

In addition to the basic checks outlined above, don’t postpone going to a professional mechanic if you sense trouble. Further, regular checkups too would ensure that an impending bigger trouble is forestalled before it blows out of proportion.

Top 5 Tips – DIY Car Maintenance is a post from: GREEN TECHNOLOGY

UNPLUG
Do not carry your laptop around with the mains adaptor plugged into the socket on the laptop. I have seen many people bring their laptops in for repair with the adaptor still plugged in, it is a sure way to break the DC socket off in the laptop and once this happens the laptop will not charge and you could be faced with the choice of throwing out the laptop a lot of money to get it fixed. So always unplug before carrying your laptop anywhere.

USE THE BATTERY
Many people use their laptop on mains power nearly all the time. It is the best way to waste your battery. If you do not use it, you lose it. So some simple laptop maintenance is to make a point of least once a month of fully charging the battery then use it on battery power until it is nearly fully depleted then charge it again. If you get a new laptop it is advisable to repeat this process a number of times initially.

FLAT SURFACE
Laptops are after all called LAP TOPS for a reason but plenty people will stick them on the bed or on a cushion while using them, this may be more comfortable but you risk overheating the laptop. So it is advisable to keep good airflow around the laptop which includes under it too. Otherwise you could find it switching off when you least expect it, and if that persists you can seriously damage your machine.

SHUT DOWN PROPERLY
Prolong the life of your laptop and save money on electricity by always shutting down your laptop properly. If you are not going to use it anytime soon do not leave it on stand-by, this is a simple laptop maintenance tip – shut it down!

SCREEN CLEANING
Cleaning the screen is common laptop maintenance so always use anti-static wipes or a lint free cloth. Never spray anything directly on to the screen as liquid could run down into the workings of the laptop or the inverter. A coarse cloth could mark the screen or leave little fibres behind.

OPENING AND CLOSING THE LID
This point mostly applies to larger screen laptops, when opening or closing the lid either hold both corners of the screen lid or grab it in the middle. Why? If you continually pull the screen open or shut from one side you could be putting unnecessary strain on the screen by twisting it, I have had to replace screens on laptops because of users doing this very thing!

Laptop Maintenance Top Tips is a post from: GREEN TECHNOLOGY

Laptop Screen Care Tips: -

Cleaning Laptop Screen – Use a computer buff to clean your laptop screen. These are very handy and can also double up as mouse pads. One of the best laptop screen protector, buying laptop buff does not burn a hole in your pocket. Even if you have oil or dirt marks, computer buff will take care of it in a single swipe. Also, finger prints are also something which are clearly visible on the laptop screen. Avoid touching the laptop screen. Avoid use of paper towels or rough cloths to clean; this might worsen things rather than resolving them.

Laptop Screen Protection Shield – Use laptop screen shields also known as laptop bullet proof shields to safeguard the sensitivity of your laptop screen. Laptop protection could not get any better. We know how tough it would be to deal with scratch marks on laptop screen. Avoid using alcoholic cleaners if you are not sure of the amount to be used. Some cleaning liquids need to be diluted with water before use. Besides, certain laptop cleaning liquids use ammonia that spoils the screen and makes it brittle and yellowish in color.

Laptop Physical Damage – Other than cleaning and protecting the laptop using computer buffs and laptop computer shields, you ought to know that simple poking could also damage the laptop screen. For instance, if you are making a laptop presentation never use pointed objects like pencil or pen to point out something on the laptop screen. If you find it difficult to use the mouse cursor, change the size or shape of the mouse cursor from the Control Panel.

The best way to safeguard your laptop computer and laptop screen in particular is to use it with care. Laptop repair could cost much more than the laptop maintenance and laptop care. Apart from the laptop screen protection, you also need to ensure the laptop exterior is not damaged. For this you can use laptop skins which are available in the market. You could even get a variety of it now. Many companies like HandStands have now come up with numerous laptop accessories like laptop bullet proof shields and computer buffs that help you in this endeavor. All you have to do is pick one!

Laptop Screen Care Tips – Guide to Complete Laptop Screen Care is a post from: GREEN TECHNOLOGY

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Tip #1. Buy a newer car.

Does it sound rather vague to you? Some new cars from a manufacturer can last for years without any repairs. It mostly depends on your driving habits indeed. Once you have a new car you can forget your mechanic’s address for a while even though regular maintenance is still required. But if you already have an old car… well, see below.

Tip #2. Get good auto insurance.

Good car insurance is the best way to save on car maintenance when it comes to breakages and failures. Try to do some research and find such car insurance which best fits your needs. When you get car insurance with a low deductible payment it will help you reduce your technical maintenance expenses considerably. If you already have auto insurance with a high deductible… hm, continue reading.

Tip #3. Do it on your own.

In case you have a mechanical breakdown, try to fix it by yourself. There are many online support services that can help you check your car and discover the fault. If you still need to take it to a repair service keep in mind that they get new car parts to change the broken ones with a high markup. Thus in some cases buying spare parts by yourself (if you know exactly what you need) will help you reduce the expenses by 4 times! Just shop around and look for better offers online.

Tip #4. Prevention is better than cure.

You can save money and prolong your car’s working capacity if you take some preventive measures. By changing oil, charging batteries in time as well as doing total check-up of your car once a month, you can help your vehicle last longer.

Tip #5. Use your car wisely.

You’ll be surprised how much you can save if you give some thought to the ways you use your car. One should stop the engine at red traffic lights and in the jams.

Tip #6. Maintain your speed level.

From my own experience I can say that when I speed up and pull up fast, it does good neither to my brakes nor my fuel economy. One should stick to some certain speed level. That way one can achieve the lowest fuel rate and save the brake pads from wearing out. Using deceleration technique to make your car come to a halt is better than applying the brake.

Tip #7. Check your tires.

Partially deflated tires do not help save money at all. First of all if there isn’t enough air in the tires they can wear out faster. Secondly underinflation increases fuel rate by 4-6% which makes you spend more fuel than usual. You can read technical characteristics and check the best tire inflation pressure for your car.

Tip #8. New spark plugs every once in a while.

Statistics show that changing old spark plugs in time cuts fuel costs down by 25-35%. Moreover new spark plugs also help improve car’s performance and capacity.

Tip #9. Wash it in time.

At first blush one could say that washing doesn’t reduce maintenance costs at all. However cleaning your car in time will help you prevent if from corrosion which is caused by accumulation of mud and dust that stay wet and stimulate corrosive wear.

Tip #10. Read the manual.

When you know your car as the back of your hand you are definitely aware of what it needs, when its engine has to be tuned-up or what oil it’s better to use. It’s always helpful to read the owner’s manual and look under the hood once in a while.

10 Tips on How to Save on Car Maintenance is a post from: GREEN TECHNOLOGY

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These basic car maintenance tips will help guide you when it comes to preventative maintenance so you can get the most out of your car and prevent car trouble.

Six Do-It-Yourself Car Maintenance Tips

Before you take the first step to preventative maintenance for your car, you should take the time to read through your owner’s manual. This will allow you to become familiar with your car as a whole, and learn about the things your car needs to function properly. Once you’re a little more familiar with your vehicle, you can take care of it by following our car maintenance tips.

Tip #1: Check your tires

Making sure that your tire pressure is set to factory specifications will increase their life span. To find out how much tire pressure you should have, check your owner’s manual or call the dealership directly.

Be sure to check the tire’s tread as well. If you can see a solid bar of rubber across the width of the tread, it’s time for a replacement.

You should also have your car tires rotated. A good rule of thumb is to have your tires rotated every six to eight thousand miles.

Tip #2: Fluids, belts and hoses

In most cases, fluids, belts and hoses can be checked easily. A lot of times, all it takes is a quick check under the hood to see if the fluids are low or if there’s wear and tear on your belts and hoses.

Tip #3: Windshield wipers

If your windshield wipers aren’t performing very well, then it might be a good time to replace them. It’s quick and easy to replace them, so doing it yourself isn’t a problem. Just make sure to look in your owner’s manual so the right model of blades is purchased.

Tip #4: Brakes

It’s important to have good brakes, and there are a number of ways to check what needs to be done.

- If your brakes squeal or grind when stopping, the brakes need to be cleaned or the pads need to be replaced.

- If your car pulls to one side when braking, you may be lacking sufficient hydraulic pressure.

- If the pedal goes all the way down, it usually means that the rear brake lining is wearing thin. If the pedal just feels soft when braking, you may be low on brake fluid.

And, of course, if your car has a brake light that glows, don’t ignore it when it lights up. Filling the brake fluid might resolve the problem, but if not, take it in to get looked at.

Tip #5: Car battery maintenance

It’s almost probable that you’ll have to replace your car’s battery at some point, but there are ways to prevent it from happening too quickly.

- Clean the cables with a wire brush and a mixture of one tablespoon baking soda and one cup water. Be sure to disconnect the cables from the battery before cleaning. Adding some petroleum jelly to the posts will make reapplying the cables easier.

- Check the connections. If the cables are loose, tighten them. If your car comes with a bar that holds the battery down, be sure itâ??s secure.

Both of these car battery maintenance tips will help when it comes to prolonging the life of the battery.

Tip #6: Car maintenance schedule

Every vehicle has a car maintenance schedule that should be followed. In most cases, scheduled maintenance is required at 30,000 miles, 45,000 miles, 60,000 miles and so on. Adhering to your car maintenance schedule will ensure that your vehicle is in proper working condition.

The Bottom Line

Following the above car maintenance tips will ensure proper functionality of your vehicle. Preventative maintenance is easy to do and will save you from the stresses of premature repair costs and vehicle breakdowns. In other words, it will help you get the most out of your car.

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Car Maintenance Tips is a post from: GREEN TECHNOLOGY