Costly car repairs can put a hole through the pocket, and at times even leave a stabbing pain in the chest. The pain is usually from the grief of finding out that you could’ve avoided much of the trouble (and cost), only if you took better care of your car. You might be wondering what more you could’ve done than getting the car for service as per schedule. Here are eight simple ways in which you can avoid the costly repairs and most definitely extend the life of your car.
1. Regular oil change
Oil is nutrition for your car engine. It lubricates the internal parts of the engine and keeps them running smoothly. Both low levels of oil as well as old and filthy oil can lead to major problems with the engine functioning.
Most of the car manufacturers indicate a schedule for oil change in the owner’s manual. Make sure you adhere to the guidelines and never ignore the oil change schedule.
Depending on your preference, you can change the oil of your car by yourself or take your car to a shop to have professionals do the job for you. As long as done regularly, either of these strategies can ensure that your car is only using clean oil.
2. Refill coolant and fluids
Your car needs other fluids like brake fluid, steering fluid, transmission fluid, and radiator coolant for it to work properly. Aside from oil, these fluids are essential to ensure that your car will have a fully-functional AC to provide comfort to you as you`re driving it.
Most of the car owners don’t bother much about the fluid condition in between car services. Leaking fluids and insufficient levels of fluids can cause heavy damage to the car’s machinery and parts. The fluids levels should be maintained and preferably checked as frequently as fortnightly.
If you don`t have any idea on how to refill coolants and other fluids, don`t take chances and opt to hire professional services. Unlike changing your car`s oil, refilling other liquids can get tricky because this task requires certain tools and skills.
3. Tire maintenance
Tires are just as important as the internal car machinery when it comes to performance and fuel efficiency. Due to their constant exposure to gravel and rugged terrains, your car’s tires may wear out sooner than you anticipate.
As a responsible car owner you should regularly inspect and maintain the condition of your car’s tires. Make sure that the tires are inflated with adequate air pressure as prescribed in the car owner’s manual.
This is especially important if you`re going to ship your car when moving as tire problems can delay your move and cost you more money. Neglecting your tires will not only cause damage to your car but continually using a car with damaged tires can become the reason why you`ll cause or get involved in road accidents. Make sure that none of these happen by paying attention to the condition of your tires.
4. Engine check
Did you notice something strange about the noise of your car engine recently? It’s probably not something as trivial as you may assume.
It may be quite easy to overlook early signs of engine troubles. In fact, sometimes people even ignore the very clear flash of the “Check Engine” signal on the dashboard. To keep your car engine in best health you should always promptly look into any signs of engine distress.
5. Don’t ignore minor repairs
Unfortunately, repair issues, no matter how insignificant they may look, don’t resolve automatically. Besides, denial never works as the ideal strategy in such cases.
Seek a mechanic’s help to get such issues fixed as soon as you can, lest the minor problems may get out of hand. If you are from Arizona, you can search online for Phoenix auto body repair for a quick car service.
Once you notice that your car is making strange noises or isn`t performing the same way before, call for professional help immediately. Regardless of how small you think the problem is, you should never attempt to fix these on your own as it might only worsen the problem. This is especially true for car owners who don`t have any experience and tools for repairing common car problems.
6. Change the air filter timely
Air filters need your attention often, and probably no one can suggest a schedule for that. Dirt and dust accumulate around the air filters. Oil filters also trap sediments from the fuel and oil. Basically, the air filters keep the engine free of these particles so that it can perform optimally. Changing the air filters as and when that appears necessary can ensure that the car engine runs efficiently.
7. Keep cover
We’ve been only talking about the car mechanics so far, but that doesn’t mean the car’s interiors and aesthetics can be overlooked altogether. A simple way to have the car upholstery looking new (and not dull and faded) is to always park the car in a garage or covered area. This way your car will be safe from sun damage and environmental exposure.
8. Watch the way you drive
Driving your car responsibly has its numerous perks. Not only is it safe for you and the rest of the traffic on the road, it can also save your car engine and machinery from unnecessary wear and tear. Avoid rash driving, using the brakes suddenly and high-speed racing at all costs.
Keeping your car covered is also important if you have plans to ship your car when moving. Covering your car will prevent it from being scratched during the move. A high-quality cover can also keep your car safe from dust buildup.
Start Now
Contrary to popular belief, extending the lifespan of your car isn`t impossible to accomplish. In fact, there are many ways on how you can achieve this goal.
If you`re clueless on where and how to start, use this article as your guide. You’ll be surprised how following all of these tips can help you enjoy a high-performing car today and in the years to come.