Anthea McGibbon, Staff Reporter

Errol Gayle checks the front end parts and oil.

A maintenance programme or service system allows one to keep track of items changed, as well as those in need of change or reassessment over time.

This is the third instalment of The Gleaner's new feature, 'How to ...', an instruction guide giving practical advice on fixing many of those pesky problems that pop up - without paying an arm and a leg. Seize on info from industry experts and become a veritable Mr or Mrs Fix-it.

Although stretching the budget significantly, some Jamaicans can only afford to purchase used vehicles. After acquiring the pre-owned vehicle, then comes the challenge of maintaining its beauty and performance.

Former chief scrutineer of the Dover Racing Club, who is currently involved in a car-building project himself, shares tips with our readers.

When making a purchase, one should do as much research as possible to get a good grasp of the vehicle's history. Look for tell-tale signs of wear and tear such as body filler, fuses and displaced or disconnected wires. Ensure that the chassis legs and original structure are intact. The vehicle's exhaust system should also be checked.

Although highly recommended, a good number of Jamaicans fail to bring along an expert at purchase time and are challenged in acquiring sufficient information on vehicle history. If you're unable to have your mechanic do an on-the-spot check, Harvey has some sure-fire recommendations for motor vehicle buyers.

Maintenance record

One should learn how to detect prior tampering with the vehicle. To do this, the buyer can access the maintenance record of the engine. Otherwise, information should be researched using the model information printed on it.

Experts are necessary, as they are knowledgeable about original structural design of vehicle parts. However, the chassis legs, if damaged, will be flattened out at spots, showing evidence of rough driving and pothole plunges.

Where there is limited knowledge, the onus is on the buyer to repurchase critical parts and find out the recommended lifespan of such parts in line with the manufacturer's standards. These parts, said Harvey, include timing belt, suspension, brakes, tyres, lower-control bushing and tie-rod ends.

The oil and disc pads must be checked immediately after purchase, and changed when possible.

Mileage reading

The odometer should also come under the microscope. Although reversing the reading is illegal, it still is practised by unscrupulous dealers. Purchasers should be mindful that a low mileage reading doesn't automatically translate to road worthiness. It should be borne in mind that the vehicle could still have been handled roughly, even though it may have rarely been driven. Therefore, it is recommended that parts be bought to make the vehicle as near new as possible.

Finally, the expert says that persons ought to develop a good relationship with their dealers. They should also try to stick with a competent mechanic in order to properly track the vehicle's new maintenance programme.

anthea.mcgibbon@gleanerjm.com

GOLDEN LINKS:

http://www.autox.in/tips.html

http://www.carjunction.com/car_care_tips.html

http://www.britain.tv/motoring_hintsecondhandcar.shtml