A car is one of the biggest purchases you will make in your lifetime. With that in mind, you’ll want to make sure that it lasts with you for a very long time. Here are some tips to ensure that your car is safe and always running efficiently.
1. Change filters regularly
The filters of your car can get clogged over time. This is why it’s important to have them changed regularly. When taking your car for a servicing, have the mechanic check your car’s oil and air filter. They will look to see whether it needs cleaning or replacing. If it needs to be replaced, only get the best quality parts. The cheap ones don’t last as long and they will only damage your car.
2. Drive your car smoothly
You know what we mean. There’s drivers who operate their car like it’s an F1 race, which is not good. You need to respect your car’s function otherwise, it won’t last long with you. This means steering the wheel and stepping on the pedals smoothly. Drive carefully so you don’t need to make sudden turns or brakes. By doing this, you’re guaranteed to keep your car healthy for a long time.
3. Use the air conditioning
Now is not the time to skimp on electricity. Your car’s air conditioner was put there for a reason –to keep you cool in an enclosed space, so use it! If you don’t use it regularly, it will leak refrigerant gas overtime, which means you’ll need to regas it.
4. Top up your fluids
Fluids are your car’s lifeline and it’s important that you top them up regularly. First check the engine oil and remove the dipstick. Wipe the stick with a rag and then put it back on again. You’ll be measuring the oil level which should be between the safe markers. If you’re using a petrol engine, the oil should have a light yellow to brown color. If it’s dark and dirty, time to replace it.
5. Check your tires
Tires are the one part of your car that should be checked weekly as these have direct contact with the road. By doing so, you are keeping yourself safe on the road at all times. When you have underinflated tires, not only is it unsafe but it’s also a waste of fuel. Make sure they are in tip top condition by topping them up with air. Check your car’s handbook as this will indicate the recommended pressure for your car’s type of tires. You might even want to consider rotating your car’s tires. This is to ensure that they wear evenly and last longer.
6. Follow the service schedule
It’s not enough that you top up your fluids, change your filters, and switch your tires. You should also be taking it to the mechanic for servicing regularly. How often will depend on your car’s age or mileage. For instance, if it’s been driven for over 10,000 miles, you need to take it to the shop. Or if it’s been over a year, you need to have it checked. A minor service is required every year while a major service is needed every two to three years.
7. Shop for a car wisely
If you need to replace your car, make sure to shop for a replacement wisely. Start with a good new or used car. There’s no point doing all the maintenance above if the car you have is already old and beat up. There are plenty of secondhand options in the market, even more so now that we have the internet. Take advantage of it and buy yourself a quality car that’ll last you for many years.
Which of these tips did you find the most useful? Share your thoughts in the comments below.