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A car is a significant investment and one that needs to be taken care of if you want it to last. While newer cars don’t require as much maintenance as older models, they still need service and attention to keep them running well. Here are some tips for keeping your car in tiptop shape.
1. Regular Maintenance
Every vehicle has a specific maintenance schedule to follow. The manufacturer sets the schedule, and if you stick to it, your car will last a long time. Regular maintenance includes checking your car’s fluids, oil, filters, brakes, and more. When you bring your vehicle to the dealer for maintenance, the technicians will keep track of what they have done and what the car needs at its next checkup.
2. Check the Tires
Tires often get overlooked when it comes to maintenance, but if you want to keep your car in good shape, the tires need to stay in good shape. Check the tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires lead to poor gas mileage, but overinflated tires can lead to a blowout. Always keep the tires within the manufacturer’s recommended range. It is also important to check the pressure before a trip and after any large temperature fluctuations. Don’t forget to rotate the tires too. It will help them to wear evenly and stay in alignment.
3. Change the Oil
The motor oil is essential to the engine’s performance. Its job is to keep the engine lubricated and keep all the parts in the engine from grinding and tearing. The oil also keeps the heat away from the combustion cycle and sends the tiny particles created during combustion to the oil filter. If there is not enough oil or it’s dirty, it won’t keep the engine’s moving parts lubricated, and the engine will suffer. Have the oil checked according to the recommendation in the owners manual, or even every time you fill up your tank.
4. Keep It Clean
Washing your car serves a bigger purpose than just making it look good. It also keeps the parts from rusting and helps the paint to last longer. This is especially important during the winter if you live where it snows. The salt and sand used to melt snow on the roads can get into your car’s fender wells and in the undercarriage. If it’s not removed, it can cause rust, which leads to bigger problems.
5. Drive With Care
In addition to regular maintenance, your driving habits can minimize wear and tear. Slow down as you approach a stop sign or stop light and refrain from slamming on the brakes at the last minute. Accelerate slowly, and keep your speed as even as possible. You also want to give the engine some time to warm up before getting up to highway speed.
Regular maintenance, fluid checks, and tires checks are essential for keeping your vehicle in tiptop shape. Spending the time and money to have these things checked and maintained will save you from spending big money on repairs later.
Image via Flickr by Rick Obst
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