When you purchase a new car and leave the dealer’s lot, you may not think about maintaining it right away. But to be honest, maintaining a vehicle can drain your pocket. In fact, it may turn out to be one of the most expensive items that you own. With the economy getting more challenging every day and fuel prices rising, you don’t want to walk away from mechanics after every few months with huge bills.
The good news is that you can keep your car looking new for longer if you maintain and service it well. Companies like Old World Industries can sell you the required oil that you need to change periodically. With a few simple tips, you can extend the life of your car.
Read on to know what these tips are.
- Wash Your Car
While driving, your car is likely to accumulate mud, sludge, and road salt. If you don’t clean it regularly, you may start noticing some rust under your doors after a few years. And if you don’t wash it even further, this rust may develop and affect its underbody components like brake lines.
If you’ve owned a car before, you know how expensive it can be to finance rust-related repairs. Washing your car regularly can help to make it look new and keep its paint intact. It also helps the paint to last longer. If you add a coat of wax occasionally, it’ll withstand dirt, salt, snow, rain, and the sun even better.
- Go Through The Car’s Manual
It’s important to keep up the car’s maintenance schedule to avoid problems. Cars that aren’t maintained frequently often have a cooling system and drive train suspension issues. If you follow the manufacturer’s recommended schedule, you’ll easily avoid these problems. That way, you’ll also be able to get the manufacturer’s warranty.
- Drive Less
It’s best to avoid short journeys if you want your car to last longer. That’s because cold starts affect the gas mileage, car engine, and the environment. These journeys may also reduce the life of your muffler.
When cars are static, their engines get cold as a result of condensation. You should run the car for a longer duration to evaporate the condensation and excessive amounts of moisture. If you don’t do this, rust may start developing in its inner parts. It’s not advisable to start a cold car then park immediately. Instead, consider driving it to the nearest store.
Also, it would be best if you drive your car at least every week. Most cars that sit for more than a week or two may have problems such as fluids slowly draining out of their system. If you intend to store your car for a long period, always consult your mechanic.
- Change The Oil Constantly
Changing the oil protects the engine and improves gas mileage. Most mechanics recommend changing the oil after you’ve driven your car for 5000 miles. Some oils may also require changes after six months. Changing the oil consistently may make your car attain more than 200000 miles. Don’t forget to change the oil filters as you change the oils.
Summing Up
If you maintain and service your car regularly, you’ll drive it for a longer period. Just like your body, they need to be looked after to stay in good shape.
