FIFTEEN EASY CAR-CARE HABITS

FIFTEEN EASY CAR-CARE HABITS

by Dustin Keller

Avoid a Break Down on the Road and Keep Your Car Running Forever!

As we embark on yet another winter driving season, it’s a good time to get a fresh reminder of fifteen simple car-care habits that will keep you safe on the road, and, believe it or not, practically keep your car running FOREVER! Check them out!

Habit 1: Follow Your Car’s Service Schedule.

Virtually every car manual has spelled out in clear terms a schedule of maintenance that should be followed as recommended by the manufacturer There is really no excuse not to follow it

Habit 2: Maintain Engine Fluids And Tire Pressure.

The engine fluids, especially the oil, are literally the lifeblood of your vehicle Healthy fluids make for a healthy car, and proper tire pressure is one of the most important factors for safety and reliability

Habit 3: Don’t Ignore Warning Signs.

When your car is having trouble, it often will tell you Are you listening? When something doesn’t sound right or another sign appears (an engine light?), check it out In most cases, the sooner you address the issue, the better

Habit 4: Drive With Care And Go Easy On Your Car.

Most cars are not built to be racers or road monsters and treating them as such is not only unsafe but dumb Everything, just like our bodies, is subject to wear and tear. Minimize that, and your car will thank you.

Habit 5: Wash & Wax Regularly.

Washing a car is more than about appearance it preserves the health of the body and the framework Waxing is crucial to protect from water and prevent rust Washing the underside of your vehicle is equally important to ensure that the mechanics remain relatively clean and operate smoothly

Habit 6: Allow 30-Seconds To Warm Up.

When your car has been sitting for more than a few hours, the engine oil is resting on the bottom Too many of us start our vehicles and immediately take off without allowing time for proper oil circulation, increasing wear and tear on the engine. Unless a herd of zombies is on your tail, allowing at least 30 seconds of warm-up time (a minute if the car has sat more than 24 hours) will pay off!

Habit 7: Maintain Your Cooling System.

Without the cooling system, your engine is dead within minutes of ignition. We are not just talking about fluids, but pumps and hoses as well and they need regular inspection, maintenance, and replacement. A failed cooling system is also among the most common causes of highway breakdowns in areas with limited phone coverage Don’t let that be you

Habit 8: Change Brake Fluid Every Two Years.

Most people only think of their brakes when the grinding begins It is smart to change the brake fluid in the same way that changing the oil will help add years of service to your vehicle.

Habit 9: Test Your Used Engine Oil!

None of us can predict the future, but the used oil that flows out of your engine every 3,000 miles can be a soothsayer! Your oil is to your car what your blood is to your body and every full physical typically includes blood tests to check for possible ailments. For about the same cost of an oil change, you can have your oil tested to see what might be plaguing your automobile, and address it before any real damage is done

Habit 10: Research Your Vehicle Model.

Every car model has its issues and idiosyncrasies yours is no different You can benefit from the experiences of others who have driven the same make and model of your vehicle and anticipate what issues tend to arise and plan accordingly

Habit 11: Prevent and Attack Rust.

Water and oxidation are among your vehicle’s chief enemies You’ve no doubt seen vehicles plagued by rust which can threaten your car ’ s body and framework. Rust-proofing your vehicle, if it’s not too late, is one of the best investments you can make to keep your car on the road

Habit 12: Use High-End Gas Once Per Quarter.

Using premium gas in your car once per quarter can add to the overall life of your car, since premium gas cleans the engine and its components, helping to ensure that it performs at its best

Habit 13: Use Your Parking Brake.

Perhaps the most misunderstood feature of your vehicle, the parking brake should be engaged whenever the vehicle is stopped (not just on a hill) This is because it holds your car ’ s transmission in place when the vehicle is parked This helps the engine NOT using it over time increases wear on the transmission (not cheap!) and the engine. Another simple habit that can make a big difference

Habit 14: Park Your Car In a Garage Or Shelter.

Another no-brainer. If you don’t have a garage, is a carport a possible option? Let’s face it the elements are tough on your vehicle, and keeping it sheltered when not in use, especially during extreme weather seasons, will make a big difference in the long-term health and viability

Habit 15: Don’t Load Your Car Down.

Unless your vehicle is built and engineered for hauling heavy gear or equipment, loading down your vehicle (or using it as makeshift storage) is not advisable. Excess weight will wear your tires out faster and can put needless strain on the framework and suspension

There you have it Yes, some of these might sound like common sense We know it, and so do you But are you doing them?

Enough said Stay safe on the road this winter!