Ravishing Cars |

• Check brake pads, linings and in drums and replace even slightly worn ones. Check for play in levers as it can alter final pressure.
• Ensure both high and low beams of headlamp are in order with both reach and spread. Insulate headlamp and blinker assembly.
• loose or improperly shut fuel tank lid means water seeping into tank. Check rubber lining of lid for wear.
• Ensure snug fit of seats as soaked seat and rider’s underside can be distracting if not hazardous.
• Keep moving parts well lubricated to prevent rust formation and to ensure smooth operation. Treat gear level and brake pedal linkages with engine oil.
• Avert rust/ corrosion by cleaning off muck and grime from even hard to reach parts.
• Keep chain lubricated and tighten any slack. Modern day O-ring chains do not require frequent lubrication. Ensure there are no muck deposits.
• Use anti-rust on sari guards, leg guards and wheel rims to preserve finish and ensure durability.

• Windscreen and windows are likely to fog up due to differenece in ambient temperatures. Use defogger to ensure visibility and avoid condensation.
• Ensure that wipers work smoothly. Replace hard and cracked wiper blades. Keep blades dirt and grime free.
• Check headlights for water seepage.Check and adjust beam if need be. Replace fogged/cracked lenses.
• Check battery acid levels. Lubricate terminals with petroleum jelly. Ensure all electrical components work without glitch. Ensure brake lights are shipshape.
• Check exhausts for leaks. Avoid driving in flooded areas. Do not take foot off accelerator pedal while driving through water as water entering through exhaust can cause severe damage.
• Ensure doors shut properly and do not let moisture/ water in. Check rubber lining for cracks or cuts.
• Replace fabric floor mats with rubber or plastic ones since damp fabric gets stinky. Ensure pedals are clean and offer good grip.
• Avert body/underbody corrosion. Modern cars have galvanised metal, rust proofing but monsoons demand extra care.

The new Accord is a hot seller and has a surplus of space and comfort. But it’s too big for driving around in crowded cities. The sticker price difference between the two is around Rs 5 lakh but the total savings on maintenance and running costs works out to over Rs 1 lakh over a three year period. now lets take a closer look at the loan amount. You will end up paying around Rs 48,729 for the Accord, while the Civic will set you back by around Rs 32,432 on a monthly basis. That’s almost Rs 6 lakh saved over a three year term. Add Rs 1 lakh of running and maintenance cost to this and you have enough money to buy a premium hatchback. Invest this amount and the Rs 7 lakh will grow to around Rs 9 lakh, if your mutual fund soars. That’s enough money for that Europe trip you have been planning for your family for the last couple of years now. Plus you have a swanky Civic parked in your driveway.