Preventative Maintenance
Camshaft Drive Belt.
A large number of modern engine are fitted with a camshaft drive belt. The belt has teeth that mesh with drive gears, this keeps the valve opening and closing in time with the position of the piston in the cylinder bore. When the cam belt breaks or jumps teeth the timing goes out of synchronisation and piston to valve contact can ocuur. This is usually a very expensive repair as major engine damage is a result.
Cam belts are replaced at manufacturers recommended intervals. This can take the form of mileage or age of the vehicle. For example a mileage of 65,000 miles may be suggested or five years whichever is sooner.
It is advisable to change the tensioner and guide wheels at the same time, this takes the form of a Cam Belt Kit.
Brake Fluid
Most braking systems are filled with Brake fluid, this takes the form of a Hydraulic liquid that can withstand high temperatures. An unfortunate side effect of brake fluid is that it has a Hydroscopic action which means that it will absorb moisture through the solid brake pipes on your vehicle. This can result in the heat absorbancy of the fluid being greatly reduced which in extreme conditions can lead to brake fade. This is caused by moisture in the lines forming a water bubble which can boil if high temperatures are encountered. This results in the brake pedal feeling spongy, in some circumstances this can result in the brake pedal going to the floor on the first brake application.
The vehicle manufacturers recommend that the brake fluid is changed at frequent intervals, this can vary from vehicle to vehicle. It is advisable to check your vehicle handbook or change the brake fluid every two years regardless.