Directions: Read the paragraph and answer the questions.

Maintaining Your Automobile

The average North American driver travels 12,000 miles per year. In order to get the maximum life out of an automobile, you must provide it with proper maintenance. Proper maintenance can reduce air pollution, extend the value of the vehicle, save on fuel bills, prevent breakdowns, and lead to better performance.

You should change the oil in all of your vehicles every 3,000 miles. Whenever you change the oil you can also change the oil filter. Oil filters remove dirt and debris from oil. As the car runs the oil filter will become clogged with excess debris from the oil. In order for an engine to run it also requires air. This air must be filtered to stop dirt from damaging the engine. Every time you change the vehicle's oil you should inspect the car for any unexpected wear and tear.

Due the performance and sheer heat of combustion car engines it very hot. Antifreeze is used as a coolant in for your vehicle system. This coolant should be replaced every two years. By doing this you extend the life of your radiator. Other fluids that require maintenance at 60,000 miles and include brake fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid.

The use of properly inflated and will maintain tires is critical. The tire holds the car to the road is your first line of safety. Tires usually have a life expectancy dictated by the manufacturer. It is recommended that you follow this life expectancy which usually averages 30,000 miles.

A vehicle should be driven properly by not exerting extra stress. Extra stress can lead to overheating. Overheating is the prime cause of premature life of belts, gaskets, hoses, and seals. If any of these parts become a problem it is a much better idea to replace the part than to repair it.

Answer the question using the information form the paragraph. Give evidence if needed.

1. On average, how many times a year should a North American driver change their oil? Explain.

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2. How often should you inspect your car for internal damage?

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3. What fluid helps stabilize the temperature of your car? How often should you change it?

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4. How can driving excessive speeds damage your automobile internally?

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5. Following manufactures guidelines, after how many oil changes would you expect that the basic tire needs to be replaced. Explain.

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