Best Practices to Keep Your Car Running for Years

We all know how cars are crucial in our daily lives. They help us get to our intended destinations within a short time, making them essential while working within a time frame. However, vehicles can lose their value and effectiveness when one fails to take care of them. So, to get the maximum benefits out of our cars, we need to take up some measures to keep them in good condition. As such, what are some of the maintenance tips to keep your car running longer? Keep reading as we have discussed ten best practices to keep your car running for many years.

Keep the Wiper Blades in Good Shape

Maintaining the proper working of the windshield wipers tops our list because the windshield is what that keeps you safe from elements. Hence, you need to maintain an excellent performance of the wiper blades. To do this, inspect them on a regular basis and check for defects such as dirt or wear. While not working properly, be sure to change them as this will not only prevent damage to your windshield, but it will also prevent an accident due to a distracted view.

Do not Engage the Handbrake Immediately After a Long Drive.

Do you engage your handbrake after a long drive without giving your car some time to cool down? If so, you are reducing the longevity of your ride. The reason behind this is that once you engage the handbrake, there are high chances of the handbrake shoe warping and sticking to the drum. So, always give your car some time to cool before engaging the brakes to avoid intensifying the warping of its parts.

Inspect the Tires

Most of us neglect to have a look at the tires. To ensure that you increase the lifespan of your car, you will need to inspect the tires regularly. Make sure that there is proper air in each tire and that the tread is safe. Once you inflate the tires, place the tire valve caps on tightly. What's more, when you decide to put your car in storage for a long time, inflate the tires to more pressure since you run the risk of getting a flat tire during this period.

Use Distilled Water for Mechanical Tasks

Distilled water is a lifesaver when it comes to the durability of your car parts. Unlike tap water that contains minerals, this one does not, meaning that you do not run the risk of corroding the parts of the vehicles due to chemicals. Even better, you can be sure that mud and minerals will not build up in the parts of your car. So, only use distilled water to clean the battery terminals, fill up the windshield reservoir if you do not have wiper fluid, as well as topping up the radiator.

Practice Safe Driving Habits

Most of us reduce the speed of our vehicles after noting the presence of traffic officers. But is this right? You might do this to avoid charges, but what you do not know is that you are damaging your car. Give the engine some time to warm up before accelerating too quickly as well. This will cause less strain to your engine, thereby enhancing its lifetime. What's more, let it cool down as you get to your destination. Avoid applying the breaks immediately to stop as this causes damage to the brakes and wheels.

Maintain the Cleanliness of Your Car

In as much as cleaning your car may seem to be a secondary factor when it comes extending the lifetime of your auto, it is crucial to ensure that you perform it regularly. Cars accumulate a lot of dirt, salts, and chemicals that may result in corrosion when left unattended. So, make it your duty to ensure that it remains clean both on the inside and outside.

Inspect and Maintain the Fluid and Oil Levels

Do you remember to check the amount of the fluids and oil of your vehicle? Some of us do this only after noticing something unusual. You should make it a behavior to inspect the level of the fluids and fill them or replace when necessary. Remember, the oil is what that reduces friction between the moving parts of the engine. And not only that, but it helps flush out debris that may have accumulated over time. So, do not neglect the need to have a look at the oil, brake, steering, coolant, and power transmission fluids, and replace them on a regular basis.  

Uphold your Maintenance Schedule

Vehicles come with a manual that guides you about the car's maintenance. But how many of us take the time to read through these guides? Unless it is your first car, you are likely to throw away and ignore that manual, and carry on with the maintenance as you used to do with your old car. You should note that different models need different maintenance methods, and these practices change with each year. So, read the manual and stick to it. Also, avoid changing mechanics for the maintenance, but stick with one. Building up a relationship with a trustworthy mechanic will save you money and frustration.

Listen to Your Car

Apart from driving your car, be attentive and listen for noises that emerge from it. If the brakes are not functioning properly, you will hear some grinding noises. What's more, you might notice shaking from the steering wheel or that emerging from the wheels. Do not ignore any noise that comes from the car. Get the problem diagnosed so that you do not deal with bigger problems in the long run.