13th Dec 2021, 01:57
I'm also interested in what you ended up using when it came to suspension components.
14th Dec 2021, 23:59
We try to get Sachs shocks since the Mirage always tends to always carry around about 800 to 1000 pounds whenever it's driven. At first we thought about Bilsteins, but there's usually a lack of give with them and we just want to have a more cushy ride for commuting.
As for brakes we started with Autozone, but switched to O'Reilly due to the lifetime warranty. Our brakes rarely last past 40k miles due to all the stop and go at the airport.
Fluids are mostly Supertech and transmission fluid is Castrol Transmax ATF
Oil filters are also Supertech. Air filter is whatever is OEM spec online and the transmission filter varies depending on what's available.
17th Dec 2021, 15:15
I wonder if we can make a list of everything that typically needs to be done on a vehicle given its life span in order to maximize its use and longevity?
That would be a fun project!
17th Dec 2021, 18:52
Yeah, a fun project.
Or, you could just look at the maintenance schedule provided by the manufacturer, which lists all the parts and services needed and the recommended mileage/time intervals they should be performed. Mission complete.
18th Dec 2021, 23:50
Just take it in to the dealer doing recommended service intervals. Get a loaner car and go Christmas shopping. Or have some fun.
19th Dec 2021, 19:20
Splendid idea about the Christmas shopping, but what if you have to visit the dealer in the month of May or August, then where do you go?
22nd Dec 2021, 01:08
...And what better way to do it. Going year round keeps you off the couch. Go out and about and enjoy the quality of life driving around with the top down. Maybe even perform better at work.
22nd Dec 2021, 23:01
I love this idea! Let's start with the battery.
1) Battery maintainer - 1.5 amp - quality brand.
2) Insulation for the battery.
3) Keep the posts and the top of the battery clean with battery cleaner (or baking soda with a toothbrush).
4) Keep it garaged if possible - fewer temperature variances.
5) Combine rides and keep it running if you're in a low crime area (prolongs starter life too).
6) Make sure the battery is properly clamped to the point where it does not move around.
7) Battery terminal protector will be helpful too.
8) Turn the radio, A/C, headlights, and all other power items off before shutting down the car.
9) Replace the battery terminals if you see substantial rust or prolonged build-up.
10) Brag about your battery longevity 10 years from now at Carsurvey so that I feel this post was worth it.
23rd Dec 2021, 17:51
Your points are valid. Do the same. I that like you use the word maintainer. Not charger.
29th Dec 2021, 13:27
I wonder how you can maintain windshield wipers in order to create maximum longevity. Windshield wipers are very important.
Is there maybe a cover for windshield wipers that can shade them when they're not in use?
Should you check the weather and remove your windshield wipers if it's going to be a sunny day?
And what about the risk that you may scratch your windshield if you accidentally turn on the wiper motor when the wipers are on the vehicle?
These are questions I want to have answered before I die.
29th Dec 2021, 19:48
Try getting into a torrential downpour with poorly maintained wipers, and we’ll see if you’re still laughing.
2nd Jan 2022, 14:04
Well, wiper care is very important. But less than .0245% of drivers do it!
Before driving your automobile please consider the following steps.
1. Inspect your wipers delicately but firmly to make sure there is no debris or looseness within the blade.
2. Never run wipers over a dry windshield. This will cause scratches and frumping sounds.
3. Google 'Windshield wiper care' and have it!
3rd Jan 2022, 17:33
Or you can just replace them as needed which is about once a year depending on where you live.
3rd Jan 2022, 20:45
Was at a drive-in theater and heard frumping sounds coming from a car in one of the back rows. It was a Chrysler Lebaron. 1992. Convertible.
4th Jun 2022, 03:42
We really do have to get a handle on windshield wiper care.
My advice as a random person on Facebook is...
1) Install umbrella covers onto each of the wipers when parked so that sun and heat wear on the windshield wipers are kept to a minimum.
2) Abstain from having any and all chemicals on the windshield.
3) Make sure to remove debris in the area.
4) In very large windshields with high lengths and short widths, consider having one windshield wiper on the driver's side that is two to three inches larger, and remove the other windshield wiper.
5) Buy a calender to display all your scheduled requirements for your vehicle and make at least one day every few months, a day where you handle windshield wiper care along with DIY oil changes, air filter replacement etc.
Windshield wiper care is important for the safety and longevity of your vehicle! In the next installment, we will be measuring the cost and benefits of using umbrella covers for your windshield wipers and comparing it to the fuel economy losses from the reduced coefficient drag. Stay tuned!
12th Dec 2021, 03:09
Well-written, nicely detailed review :)
Don't hold your breath on a finding a good G4, as it isn't easy due to the lack of training and care from (many of) the people who buy them. G4's are pitched to the FICO 300 Crowd, who tend to Lease-Em, Beat-Em, and DumpEm. The trick is to find that was previously owned by a frugal-but-responsible person.