What Does TLC Mean For Cars?

Many of us give our cars the love they deserve. From routine washings to changing engine oil, tasks like these help your car look and feel its best. However, as life sometimes gets in the way, car maintenance falls further and further down the to-do list.

By making an effort to give your vehicle some much-needed TLC, you can reap several benefits—for both you and your vehicle.

In this post, we’ll talk about the advantages of routine car TLC, including some important maintenance and cleaning tips to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape. We’ll also discuss an innovative solution to protect your ride from the outdoor elements!

What Is TLC in Cars?

Tender Loving Care (TLC) for cars represents preserving the car positively and repairing any worn components to maintain the vehicle operating efficiently. TLC stands for “Tender Loving Care” or “Tender Love and Consideration.”

Nonetheless, the two vocabularies transmit the duplicate announcement. Providing your car TLC intention, maintain it on the roadway protracted, and you’ll assumably pay negligibly for rehabilitation and supervision.

Some unpredictable malfunctions are due to a deficiency of frequent supervision. So, an automobile repair person can analyze the automobile and suggest TLC on the automobile.

Driving can be exceptionally fascinating until something significant damages down with the car. However, TLC may also stand for Taxi and Limousine Commission in New York City, United States.

What Is a TLC License?

It is disseminated by the Taxicab and Limousine Commission. If you are proceeding to manipulate a business, then you maintain to handle this classification of appointment.

A TLC ownership, comprehended as an everywhere license, is not associated with bringing maintenance of your car; preferably.

It is a type of license that allows drivers to drive a golden or immature taxicab, limousine, ebony car, or uniform. You can effortlessly determine TLC-licensed cars with exceptional TLC platings.

Examples of “TLC” in a car listing

Here is an example of how you might see “TLC” included in a listing for a car:

For sale, 2015 Honda CR-V EX-L. 25,382 miles on odometer. Black interior, brown exterior. 32 MPG highway miles. Non-smoker, only 1 owner. Can provide maintenance records. Good first car. Needs TLC. Price is negotiable.

Here’s how “TLC” might be used in an ad in a positive way:

2016 Nissan Versa for sale. Odometer: 60,000 miles. White exterior, black interior. Great condition, received lots of TLC. Gets 40 MPG highway, 31 city. Comfortable, drives great. Willing to negotiate price.

Why is TLC important for car maintenance?

TLC and Safety: Ensuring Safety For Every Drive

The main purpose of the TLC is to keep the car safe and dependable. Keeping the safety systems working properly ensures that the driver and the passengers can use the car safely. This type of maintenance includes:

• Keeping the external lights working
• Maintaining the tires
• Paying special attention to the state of the brakes and steering wheel
• Regular checkup of the ABS, ESC, and other electronic safety systems

Difference of TLC In An EV or Hybrid Car 

Electric vehicles and hybrids have unique systems compared to regular internal combustion engine cars.

Electric vehicles are powered by a battery, not by a complex fuel engine. These cars do not use and do not need all those fluids and filters.

On the other hand, they have a battery with a work life. A driver can prolong their life if it follows the recommendation regarding charging. Also, drivers should avoid aggressive driving styles because that can affect battery longevity.

Hybrid vehicles use a combination of battery and regular engines to run the car. It makes maintenance a bit more difficult because there are more factors to consider.

In either case, the driver should follow the manufacturer’s recommendation regarding battery use. Driving with an empty tank in some models can cause problems with the battery in the long term.

5 Signs That Your Suspension System Needs A Little TLC

If you’re feeling every bump in the road, you’re not the only one – your vehicle can feel it, too. Here are 5 signs that your suspension system needs a little TLC.

Your car’s suspension system is complex and made up of many different parts. They include shock absorbers, springs, struts, and ball joints, just to name a few.

These components, along with your wheels and tires, control how your car handles the road. The suspension system also helps manage wear and tear on your car especially over bumps and in uneven road conditions.

Below are five common signs you may have a suspension problem. If you recognize any of these issues in your own ride, bring your vehicle to the experts at Mission Auto Repair. Suspension problems are complex, difficult, and best left to professionals.

#1. Your Car is Pulling to One Side (or Has Difficulty Steering).

If your car pulls to one side, the alignment may be out of spec. (If you blow through a pothole or climb over a curb or two, your alignment can get out of spec).

Now it could be your car is pulling due to a problem with an overinflated or underinflated tire, but it’s more likely that the camber, caster, or toe need to be inspected and re-aligned.

If you notice this pulling during turns, the shocks could be going out, decreasing your vehicle’s stability. Sudden changes in alignment don’t happen magically. Something broke. It could be a broken spring or control arm.

Poor alignment means uneven tire wear, annoying pulling, a constant fight with the steering wheel, and even decreased gas mileage.

#2. Your Car’s Shock Absorbers are Greasy.

If you take a look at the shock absorbers, they should be dry. Greasy or oily shock absorbers are likely leaking fluid. This could damage your vehicle if left untreated.

If the shocks are bad, you’ll likely notice a more bouncy aspect to the ride since the suspension springs are doing all the work. Our technicians can take a look to see if there’s an issue.

#3. Your Car Dips, Leans, or Lurches During Stops.

If you’ve felt yourself jolt forward during a normal stop, it’s time to get your vehicle’s suspension checked. Lurching and dipping when you apply the brakes may mean that the shocks have worn out.

Not only is it unpleasant, but it can increase the time it takes for you to come to a stop – which means that it also increases your chance of an accident.

Watch for your car doing “nose dives” when braking (it leans forward), or it “rolls” to the side when cornering (it leans side-to-side), or it “squats” during acceleration (it leans backward).

#4. Uneven Tire Treads.

If you’re getting your tires rotated regularly, they should all wear down at the same rate. Furthermore, all parts of the tire that come in contact with the ground should wear down evenly.

If you notice one tire that’s more worn than the others, or that the wear on each tire is uneven, it’s a likely sign that your vehicle isn’t being held evenly.

This is an easy thing to watch for, and an early warning sign that you should get your suspension checked out. Not only will it help you increase the longevity of your vehicle, but it also saves your tires!

#5. Driving Feels Bouncy or Rough.

While no drive will be completely smooth, modern suspensions and shock absorbers have made it much easier to avoid bouncing around when you drive.

If you’re feeling every bump in the road, you’re not the only one: your vehicle can feel it, too. And if you’re not being cushioned from those jolts, then neither is your car. Let us help you get things right so you can enjoy your drive again.

How to Give Your Car Tender Loving Care

#1. Change Oil/Filter.

The most basic maintenance task you can perform is the regular oil and filter change. By replacing the oil, you keep the engine lubricated and running its best. Allowing old oil to run in the engine only increases contaminants and leads to premature wear.

The frequency of oil and filter changes depends on the manufacturer and the type of oil you use. You can find recommendations in your car’s service manual.

Otherwise, most manufacturers agree that you should change conventional oil every 3,000-5,000 miles, while synthetic oil is typically good for 7,500-10,000 miles.

#2. Check/Change Fluids.

The engine oil is only one fluid that needs to be checked and changed regularly. You also have the coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid to think about. Each of these fluids is a different color, so you can easily identify them if a leak occurs.

Depending on your car type and manufacturer recommendations, you will need to change some of these fluids at regular intervals.

However, there are also some that should simply be topped off when needed. In either scenario, you should regularly check the fluids to ensure all of the major systems are running as intended.

#3. Rotate Tires.

By rotating your car tires, you extend the life of the tread and improve on-road handling. In general, tire rotations are recommended every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. Some people choose to have it done at the same time as an oil change to keep it simple.

Because the tires on the front of the vehicle operate differently than those on the back, the tread doesn’t wear evenly. To ensure that the tread wears in a uniform pattern, moving them around the car is essential.

However, not all cars have the tires rotated in the same direction. They can be moved in a rearward cross, X-pattern or forward cross-motion, depending on what type of car you drive.

#4. Replace Brakes.

Your car brakes are designed to stop your vehicle before a collision occurs. If the pads aren’t changed before they wear out, the stopping time increases, and your safety is put on the line.

Brake pads contain wear indicators to let you know when it’s time for a change, but it’s also wise to perform a regular inspection.

Most brake pads need to be replaced every 25,000 to 50,000 miles, while rotors typically have a life of 30,000 to 70,000 miles. In some cases, you’ll be able to resurface the worn rotor, while other times, it’s imperative to replace them.

#5. Check Battery.

The car battery doesn’t have an infinite lifespan. In fact, it’s only meant to last for about three to five years.

When the car battery dies, you find yourself in a complicated situation, especially if you are running late for work. However, you can head off this annoying situation simply by offering your battery a little TLC.

Perform a visual inspection of the battery occasionally. It should appear in good condition and there should be no corrosion on the connectors. If there is, you want to use a baking soda and water solution to remove the corrosion.

Additionally, you can have the battery tested for free at most auto parts stores to check its condition.

Pushing your vehicle to its limits and driving in extreme temperatures can both take a toll on a battery. Replace it at the first sign that it’s struggling to provide the power your car needs.

#6. Keep it Clean.

It may not seem important to keep the car clean, but there are amazing benefits to the practice. By cleaning and waxing the exterior, you keep the paint looking its best.

If you’ve ever had to have auto body or paint work performed, you know how expensive it can be, so you want to avoid that in the future.

Plus, cleaning the inside of the car is just as important. With some TLC, you help your vehicle look new, thereby protecting the resale value.

When it comes time to sell your car, you should be able to get top dollar, helping you afford the next ride you want.

None of these tasks listed in our guide is difficult to perform and the majority can be done at home if you have some basic mechanical knowledge. Set aside regular time to care for your vehicle and the investment will pay off down the road.

How to Give TLC to Your Car’s Exterior

Descending, we include some recommendations on how you can supply your car with delicate, affectionate consideration.

#1. Wax and Polish Your Vehicle.

This resolve protects the pigment and correspondingly supports keeping your car purifier for more prolonged. As mentioned above, it is important to wash not only your car but also with a good shampoo with wax and polish.

#2. Service Regularly.

During the service, the mechanic will check and change the brake pads, brake fluid, engine oil, and power steering fluid. If achievable, you should demand the use of manufactured oil as it is more sanitary.

If you are competent in accomplishing a DIY car usefulness, excellent. But for those who can’t stick to their car’s service schedule.

Revolving tires regularly will support fuel efficiency. If you witness that the car is dragging to one flank while navigating, you can furthermore operate a courtesy to revolve the tires.

#3. Wash Your Car.

If you cleanse, shine, and wax the car appropriately, the coloring appointment intention last extended.

Superseding a coloring appointment due to fragments or rust can be extraordinarily costly, so disseminating your vehicle with a reasonable wash intention helps you preserve cash on hand.

Maintaining the surface of your car sanitary may not appear necessary because its intention conveys contamination likewise. However, there are benefits for you and your car.

#4. Take Care of Dents and Scratches.

Indentations can effortlessly be restored by a repairperson or by yourself if you’re courageous, and they won’t cost an excess to improve. If the car begins to rust, any damage to the paint can lead to costly repairs later.

Benefits of TLC for Your Car

Regular TLC for your car can bring a range of benefits. Here are some of the ways in which taking care of your vehicle can pay off:

#A. Increased Lifespan.

One of the most significant advantages of TLC for your car is that it can help to increase its lifespan. Regular maintenance and care can help to prevent breakdowns and other issues that can shorten the life of your vehicle.

By keeping your car in good condition, you can help it to last longer and save money on costly repairs.

#B. Improved Performance.

Another benefit of TLC for your car is improved performance. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and other maintenance tasks can help to keep your car running smoothly and efficiently.

This can help to improve acceleration, handling, and other aspects of your car’s performance.

#C. Better Fuel Efficiency.

TLC for your car can also help to improve fuel efficiency. By keeping your car in good condition, you can help it to run more efficiently, which can translate into better gas mileage. This can save you money on fuel costs over time.

Other benefits of TLC for your car include:

• Enhanced safety
• Reduced emissions
• Improved resale value

How TLC Can Save You Money on Car Repairs

Taking good care of a car requires several important components of maintenance and upkeep.

Regular maintenance helps to keep the car in good condition which increases safety and lifespan of vehicle. Here are some common aspects of TLC for vehicles:

#A. Routine Maintenance.

Regular maintenance is important for maintaining a car in good shape and avoiding disastrous mechanical failures.

Regular maintenance means getting oil changes, checking and topping off basic fluids, and replacing old parts such as spark plugs and air filters.

Regular performance of these activities guarantees improved fuel economy, smoother operation, and a longer engine life.

#B. Tire Care and Inspection.

The safety, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability of a car depend on tire care. Preventing uneven tire wear and enhancing driving safety can be achieved through regularly checking tire pressure and vehicle alignment.

Without proper tire care, you will have to face excessive fuel consumption and increased chances of accidents.

#C. Interior and Exterior Cleaning.

Maintaining a car in clean condition on the inside and outside increases both looks and lifespan. Washing the outside keeps the paint and metal from rusting and getting damaged. Vacuuming and cleaning the interior keeps the interior neat and healthy.

#D. Taking Care of Small Repairs Early.

Repairing small problems before they become major ones can save time and money in the long term. Small problems such as scratches or small engine problems should be repaired early to prevent costly repairs down the road.

Monitoring warning lights and strange noises can help identify potential issues before they become major ones.

#E. Battery Maintenance.

A car’s battery is needed to start the engine and energize electrical accessories. Monitoring the charge on the battery and replacing aged batteries on schedule can help avoid surprise failures.

Maintaining a battery properly charged guarantees smooth operation, particularly under extreme weather conditions.

#F. Safe Driving Habits.

Practicing safe driving habits is another way to give your car some TLC and save money on repairs. Aggressive driving, such as hard braking and rapid acceleration, can cause significant wear and tear on your car’s parts.

By driving defensively and obeying traffic laws, you can reduce the risk of accidents and keep your car in good condition.

• In conclusion, regular TLC can save you money on car repairs in the long run.
• Investing time and money in routine maintenance, regular cleaning, and safe driving habits can help extend the lifespan of your car and prevent costly breakdowns.

TLC for Specific Car Components

While we’ve covered the basic maintenance tasks and what’s required for washing your vehicle, let’s now discuss the TLC for specific areas of your ride:

#1. Engine Care.

The engine is considered the heart and soul of your vehicle. It keeps the wheels turning and is the powerhouse behind your ride.

That said, properly caring for your engine is vital. Not only is it good for engine health, but it also helps other car components run better.

Here are some general engine care tasks you shouldn’t forget about:

• Regularly change oil when needed
• Check air filter and change periodically
• Examine and maintain proper coolant levels
• Routinely check for leaks under vehicle
• Don’t always run car on low fuel
• Examine belts and replace when needed
• Change out spark plugs
• Schedule a fuel filter change when required
• Don’t ignore check engine light

If you truly want your car to last and retain its resale value, the tasks above should never be an afterthought. While car repairs are crucial, preventive care is equally as important!

#2. Exterior Care.

While the engine should be a priority, you can’t forget the car’s exterior. Routine cleanings can protect your vehicle’s paint from damage, and they also boost your car’s appearance. After all, we all love a clean, dirt-free ride!

Here are some exterior car cleaning tips to keep in mind:

• Never wash in direct sunlight
• Choose the right soap and cleaning products
• Use wax on your vehicle
• Choose high-quality cleaning cloths
• Don’t forget to clean the headlights
• Use automotive window glass cleaner
• Add tire shine

If you’re parked outside, your car can get dirty in a hurry. Here at CarCapsule, our products can protect your vehicle from dust, dirt, dings, minor scratches, and more!

#3. Interior Care.

It’s also essential to keep a clean and comfortable interior. You can accomplish this by following these tips:

• Remove and clean floor mats
• Throw out trash
• Clean seats using a powerful vacuum
• Use a toothbrush to remove debris stuck in seat cracks
• Spray and wipe down interior windows
• Clean cup holders
• Make a simple DIY cleaner for removing seat stains
• Add a car freshener for a fresh smell

CarCapsule can also help you keep a clean interior! It keeps away rodents and reduces moisture buildup, which can both harm your ride.

How Much Does Car TLC Cost?

The cost of TLC vehicles is as follows:

• $550 for vehicles with less than 500 miles.
• $625 for vehicles with more than 500 miles.

Automobile. If your automobile is in need of urgent repairs, try to determine whether it has been driven 500 miles or more to determine how much money you will need to budget. However, a $75 inspection fee is included in the price of TLC.

FAQs.

Q: What does it mean when a car needs TLC?

When a car needs TLC, it simply means the car needs tender loving care. If someone says a car needs tender loving care, the fellow is saying the car needs adequate maintenance and repair of faulty parts so that it can function properly again.

Vehicle enthusiasts sometimes communicate with slang related to the automotive industry, one of which is “TLC.” Folks who are new in the automotive industry, especially those who buy a car for the first time, may not easily understand what TLC means.

TLC is usually used when addressing the issue of maintenance and repair of a used car. Some used cars require quick, tender loving care so that they can become standard again for the car owner’s use.

Q: What does TLC mean in mechanic terms?

Although TLC is an acronym used in different contexts, auto mechanics commonly use it in the automotive industry.

TLC means “tender loving care” in mechanic terms. TLC is the slang they use when informing a car owner that their car needs maintenance and repair of defective parts.

Every vehicle needs regular maintenance to function properly. So, if your mechanic says your car needs TLC, they simply mean you need to perform some maintenance on the car and fix some faulty parts so that the vehicle can perform efficiently again.

Q: What does cosmetic TLC mean?

Cosmetic TLC means “quick fixer-upper.” In other words, cosmetic TLC refers to house maintenance that involves painting, carpeting, and refinishing of floors, as well as other minor maintenance that can beautify the house.

TLC meaning in real estate is closely related to the automotive industry’s meaning. Cosmetic TLC in real estate requires a quick fix on a structurally sound house or apartment to upgrade some areas of the house to give it a facelift.

A home buyer can decide to work on specific areas of their newly purchased house. They may include painting the exterior and interior, replacing the kitchen cabinets, toilets, etc.

Most real estate business people perform a TLC before selling a property to attract more value.

Q: Can you still get a TLC license in NYC?

Of course, you can still get a Taxi and Limousine Commission – TLC license in New York City. The state mandates all drivers in New York City to obtain their TLC license to enable them to operate in the city without any legal penalty.

Besides the TLC, the state also accepts a current For-Hire Vehicle (FHV) license. Also, a Medallion For-Hire Vehicle (FHV) license can be accepted in NYC.

If you were asking, “What is a TLC license?” It is an authorization that allows taxi drivers to operate in New York City.

Acquiring the Taxi and Limousine Commission – TLC license is paramount if you intend to drive a taxi in New York City. Therefore, it should be taken as a fundamental requirement.

Q: How much do TLC drivers make in NYC?

TLC drivers earn a decently monthly or annual income in New York City. Top TLC drivers earn as much as $7,860 monthly, which sums up to about $94,320 per annum.

While the 75th percentile of TLC drivers earns as much as $4,753 monthly, summing up to $57,036 yearly.

On average, TLC drivers in New York City earn as much as $3,727 monthly, totaling about $44,724 yearly.

Finally, in the TLC earners category in New York City, the 25th percentile of TLC drivers earn up to $2,559 monthly and a total of $30,708 per annum.

Q: Do you need TLC for Uber?

Uber drivers may not need TLC to operate in every state in the U.S. However, New York City is a common place where all taxi drivers need to have their Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) license before operating legally.

So, if you intend to be an Uber driver in New York City, obtaining your Taxi and Limousine (TLC) license must be a priority.

The process requires you to fill and submit an application form online and undergo a 24-hour FHV – For-Hire Vehicle course coupled with an examination at the end of the course.

The TLC application process is strictly for persons between 19 years old and above. It also requires a drug test, fingerprinting, defensive driving course, TLC medical examination, etc.

Final Words

If you were asking, “What does TLC mean for cars?” the full meaning and actual meaning of the terminology have been explained above.

However, it is not enough to understand that TLC means tender loving care; you must be willing to perform TLC maintenance on your car when necessary.

TLC is pretty easy for DIYers; however, if you’re not sure about doing the TLC car repair perfectly by yourself, kindly contact a professional auto mechanic who can do the job while you include the cost in your next budget.

Remember, every car needs regular maintenance to perform efficiently.