Everyone wants their car to last as long as possible–whether you get a new car every few years or you’ve been driving the same car for a decade, it’s a simple fact that people want to ensure they don’t have to replace their car until it’s absolutely necessary. If you want to make sure that your car lasts longer, consider the following 10 tips that will keep your car running smoothly for years to come.
Tip #1: Handle car issues as soon as possible
It can be tempting to ignore the on-and-off-again warning light or the sight of a missing crew, especially if money is tight. But these small issues can spell disaster down the line, and not just for your wallet: if you don’t get an issue fixed ASAP, your car may need far more expensive repair work down the line.
Tip #2: Drive with your car’s “health” in mind
Good driving habits will help keep your car running smoothly for years to come. Good driving habits includes avoiding any sudden stops and accelerations and not reducing any unnecessary car trips, such as driving the car when it’s feasible to walk.
Tip #3: Get the inside cleaned
Whether you take your car to a professional car detailing Ottawa shop or do it yourself, remember this: your car’s interior needs to be kept clean from dirt, food, stains and other debris. A clean interior does wonders for keeping your car looking–not to mention smelling–great.
Tip #4: Keep up with brake and other fluids
Don’t let your car’s important fluids–brake fluid, oil, coolant, etc.–slide. Always make sure to have your car’s fluids regularly replaced and inspected for issues.
Tip #5: Don’t drive on damaged tires
If your tire pressure is low, have it pumped up! Do not drive on low or flat tires as this will put immense stress on your car’s suspension and can seriously shorten your car’s lifespan.
Tip #6: Have a sealant applied
You should take your car in for SUV detailing Ottawa or other car detailing services to have sealant or a wax coat applied on a regular basis. A sealant or wax layer will help protect your car’s paint job from stains and debris.
Tip #7: Know how to break in your car’s engine
Your car’s engine is delicate thing, and you need to ‘break in’ your car’s engine properly. As a general rule of thumb, make sure you are using light acceleration for at least the first 1,000 miles.
Tip #8: Get a great mechanic
A great mechanic can help you address potential issues as soon as possible or, if your car does need some major repairs, they can help you get your car back into driving shape. The relationship between you and your mechanic is a vital one for your car’s longevity, so choose mechanics wisely!
Tip #9: Make sure you use your car regularly
This may seem like a strange tip—but using your car regularly will help keep your car in running shape. Imagine being a professional runner who doesn’t compete in any races for a while, only to suddenly attempt a marathon—it wouldn’t be pretty. The same applies for your car’s performance.
Tip #10: Read. The. Manual.
Yes, you need to read your car’s manual. Read it all at once, or in bits and pieces; just be sure to read it!