We all want our cars to run forever. But, as with all machines that have moving parts, they eventually wear down and break. To make your car run forever, or at least for as long as possible, there are some simple tips you can follow.
1. Make regular and simple checks
You should get into the habit of checking your car’s oil level every month or so. It’s a quick and easy way to spot any potential issues with your engine. You should also keep an eye on other fluids like coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. It’s also a good idea to check your car’s battery regularly. Many batteries last around five years, so if yours is getting close to that age, you might want to consider replacing it.
These simple checks can help prevent major problems down the road. A checklist of crucial examinations will identify issues before they have a chance to balloon into costly repair bills, and it may also help you prevent problems from forming in the first place. You can also use the vin decoder if you are not sure about the current condition of a recently purchased car.
2. Stick to the service schedule
Your car will come with a service schedule from the manufacturer. This will outline when different parts of the car need to be serviced or replaced. It’s important to stick to this schedule as it will help keep your car running smoothly and ensure that any potential problems are caught early on. This will help ensure that all the parts of your car are in good working condition.
Overall, you should set aside a small budget for routine maintenance once a year and a larger budget for comprehensive maintenance every two to three years. Minor services may include oil filtration, oil changes, and replacement of other fluids as necessary, depending on the performance and mileage of the vehicle. However, major services might include the replacement of air filters, cam belts, and spark plugs.
3. Keep your car clean
It might not seem like it, but keeping your car clean can actually help extend its life span. Dirt and dust can build up over time and cause components to wear down quicker than they should. Regularly cleaning both the inside and outside of your car will help remove any build-up of dirt and grime.
Before beginning a deep cleaning, you must pre-rinse your automobile. Don't forget to use a suitable cleaning solution rather than merely dishwashing detergent, and then dry the car with a soft chamois.
4. Focus when you drive
We’re all guilty of being distracted while driving at some point or another. But it’s important to focus when you’re behind the wheel, as it can help prevent accidents that could damage your car beyond repair. So put away your phone, turn off the music and focus on the road ahead.
5. Park it indoors
If you have a garage, then make sure you’re using it! Parking your car indoors overnight will help protect it from the elements which can cause rusting and other damage over time.
You can at least get a premium outdoor car cover. Over time, the air moisture, animals, humans, and the weather will all damage your car. Additionally, leaving your vehicle parked on grass or gravel will cause the undercarriage to rust.
6. Listen for odd noises
If you start hearing strange noises coming from your car, it could be an indication that something is wrong. So if you hear anything out of the ordinary, make sure you take it to a mechanic so they can diagnose the problem before it becomes serious (and more expensive).
Here are a few examples: A nail in a tire may be the cause of a clicking sound you hear while driving. The brake wear indicators may make a loud screaming sound if it's time for new brakes.
7. Inspect your tires
It’s important to regularly check your tires for both wear and tear as well as proper inflation levels (most cars have a sticker inside the driver’s door with recommended tire pressure). Worn tires can be dangerous as they can lead to blowouts, while underinflated tires will decrease fuel efficiency (and no one wants that!).
Your automobile handles, catches, and performs better with healthy tires. Long-term neglect of a tire with a bubble might result in a blowout and serious wheel damage.
Conclusion
By following these simple tips from the EpicVIN team, you can help keep your car running like new for many years to come! The secret to maintaining your vehicle in top shape and preventing any potential problems from arising is to get regular service. You can always go to the mechanic, but if you remember to complete these quick, regular checks, you might not need to.
