An automobile is an important asset that can help you pursue personal and career goals. It takes a lot of hard work to buy a vehicle, and therefore you need to protect and maintain it. You need to observe proper maintenance practices. This promotes durability and prevents car breakdowns. Used vehicles require additional maintenance since they are more complicated and in most cases expensive to repair.
A vehicle that is performing optimally saves on maintenance costs and improves overall efficiency. Below are several steps to help you maintain your vehicle in good working condition at all times.
Drive Cautiously
You should always drive safely and avoid speeding your vehicle since this rapidly adds to the car engine’s wear. When you begin your trip, accelerate slowly and increase the speed only when necessary. Once you stop at a red light, turn your vehicle to neutral, to give the engine a few seconds to relax. Careful and vigilant drivers always enjoy a long time between repair and their vehicles last longer.
Take Care of the Car Tires
At regular intervals, check your tire pressure and keep them inflated to the desired level, as listed in your user manual. Uneven tire wear is a common problem you must watch out for. If you have maintained the tire pressure properly, then uneven wear could mean that it is time for a wheel realignment. Uneven wear may also be a sign of worn-out brakes or shock absorbers, a bent wheel, or damage to the inner tire. Therefore, you should visit a reputable auto mechanic for inspections and service.
Get Your Car Washed Once a Week
Washing your vehicle ensures it is tidy, polished, and free from rust. Remember to vacuum the inside of the vehicle. Dirt particles are abrasive, while spilled liquids such as sodas can be corrosive.
Therefore, ensure you vacuum the interior of your car thoroughly and clean the dashboard and delicate parts with a soft cloth. Take out your mats and wash them or spray them off. This removes dirt particles that, if let to pile up, will damage mats. Before putting the mats back, ensure they are clean and dry to prevent mold.
Park in the shade
Parking your vehicle in the shade prevents the UV rays from destroying the interior and protects the paintwork. You could also use a car shade to mitigate the effect of the sun if you have to park in an area without shade. Having a dashboard shade also helps protect the interior from chirping.
Regular Engine Oil and Filter Change
You need to check and change the engine oil as recommended by your car manufacturer. Although some car manufacturers are increasing the duration between oil changes, regular oil changes are still important, especially if you bought a used car.
Frequent oil changes wash out the engine and eliminate the abrasive dirt and metal fragments, thereby prolonging its life. You should also adjust the oil filters. If there is an accumulation of oil and dirt particles in the old filters, it would otherwise mix with the fresh and clean oil.
Cleaning the Engine of Your Car
Wash your engine at least twice every year. A clean engine makes it easy to spot leaks and repair damaged components. It is advisable to take your car to professionals for cleaning with steam.
If you decide to do it yourself, ensure you secure the sensitive engine components such as air intake, distributor, and electrical parts in plastic bags. To clean the motor, you can use a grease-cutting detergent and a bristle brush.
Do you want your car to serve you for a long time? You can ensure your car is in good shape by driving carefully and following the manufacturer’s instructions. Always make sure that mechanical problems are repaired immediately by professionals.
