After quite some time, you have finally saved money and bought your dream car. You revel in its beauty and efficiency and want to make it last longer. You want it to last longer. After all, you have other priorities that you want to focus on–rent, groceries, insurance premiums, Saturday night-outs. Our car is a valuable asset that we should care for lest they become a nuisance and a liability.
In the U.S., an average car can last up to 11 years. This statistics is an increase in the life span of cars five years ago. This development results from an increase in car quality and the ability to withstand the weather. As cars’ longevity rose, the need to own one’s vehicle also intensified, with the number of vehicles on the road increasing up to 278 million. Keeping a car became part of the lifestyle of an average American. How to take care of your car better? Here are some tips.
Pay attention to the information and instructions in the car manual.
An owner’s manual is an important document that can guide you in taking care of your car. It is found inside the glove box of a newly-purchased car. Consider the car manual as your Bible to properly take care of your car to avoid being stressed with endless car repairs. In the document, you will find there your car’s maintenance schedule for major services. Following these maintenance schedules religiously will let you avoid costly damages and breakdowns. Consider the act of following the recommended schedules as an investment so that you will not break the bank or incur staggering debts.
Be mindful of oil changes.
Some car owners may think that oil changes are not very important. That is the wrong mindset. Oil is essential in the car as it keeps the entire engine lubricated and cooled. Your car manual will inform you of the oil change schedules that you have to follow. Again, failure to keep up with these schedules may result in some serious damage later on.
Ensure other types of fluids are replenished.
There are other parts of your car that need fluids. Aside from oil, your car needs brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, coolant, among others. Keep the supply of these fluids at an optimal level. Dates to replenish these fluids are written in the manual. Meanwhile, new A1 Express Old Car Removal models automatically send alerts in the form of indicator lights days before you run out of fuel.
Pamper your car by adding extra protection from changing weather conditions.
Your car is exposed to the elements and goes around town all year round. It will be covered in snow, be drenched in the rain, or be exposed to blazing sunlight. Exposure to changing weather will most likely damage the car paint and surface. Always make sure to find a space where you can park your car in a shady area. A garage will be a very safe place. If not in a garage, try to cover it to protect it from the cold or heat.
Inspect your car tires if they are pumped up.
Make it part of your reminders to inspect your car tires and get the correct tire pressure. This act is so useful that it allows you to monitor your car before driving it and prevent possible car accidents along the way. Tires that are in good condition enables drivers to handle their vehicles better. Also, a blown-up tire may cost higher than a regular replacement. Think of it as a money-saving habit. Not enough tire pressure makes the car consume more fuel, thus increasing your gas costs.
Your car needs to be monitored and maintained regularly by a competent mechanic. The inspection may cost extra, but it will let you avoid expensive repairs.
Even if you are busy with work or family, you should take time to inspect your car’s interior and clean it from dust or garbage in the front or backseat. The bad odor will linger in the upholstery making the overall ride an unpleasant experience. The car’s exterior should also be car washed regularly to prevent scratches and other rust-inducing road salts.
This practice ensures that your car looks good, thus retaining its market value. In terms of cleanliness, be observant of your car’s air filters. Dirty air inside your vehicle is not good for your health. Clean or replace your air filters regularly. Cleaning them also ensures that your car is not overworked and consuming more fuel. And above all, drive smoothly and safely to protect your cars from potholes, bumps, and other incidents on the road.