We love cars. They help us make a statement and give us the thrill of driving around in them. When you want to buy a car, it is worth buying one which is made with original components from a trusted automotive component manufacturer. Original injection molded components such as, i.a.: steering column trims, bumpers, sensor holders or roof modules ensure safety and comfort of using the car.
Once you have purchased a new car, you probably intend to keep it functional for a very long time. Maintaining a car is easy if you do it regularly, and the benefits are great too. You get to avoid serious mechanical problems that could mean the end of your car. Do not just let things slide. Follow the tips below to extend the lifeline of your vehicle.
Read the manual
The manual contains all the details you need to know about your new car. It will detail the specifications of what kinds of products to use or not use on the car. These include fuel recommendations and situations where you will qualify or not qualify for a warranty. Avoid using your car in ways that you can damage it or risk being denied warranty.
Always inflate your tires fully and rotate them
Underinflated tires have a higher rate of wear and tear and poor gas mileage than those which are fully inflated. Also, avoid overinflating the tires as this could lead to a blowout. It helps to follow manufacturer instructions and invest in a pressure gauge to determine the pressure in your wheels. Make a habit of rotating tires, for example, switching the front and back tires so that they can wear evenly.
Change your oil regularly
You should find information on how frequently you should change your oil from the manual. Every six months is fair enough. However, you should change the oil more often if you are always on the go. While you are it, check for potential problems such leaks.
Take care of your engine
The engine is the most critical part of your car, and you should ensure it is always in good condition. First, check whether your engine coolant has a leak. Any leak would mean that your engine is not getting adequate cooling, which risks overheating and damaging it. Also, check your engine’s air filter. If you drive in dusty roads, the filter is likely to clog faster, and you will have to replace it earlier than scheduled.
Check the battery
A faulty battery can leave you stranded in a strange place at untimely hours. Test your battery regularly in auto shops. Moreover, plan on replacing it every four to five years.
Your driving habits will also dictate how long your car will be around. Wrong habits such as hitting on bumps and driving excessively fast will make your vehicle wear down quicker than it should. Clean your vehicle regularly and do not ignore the windshield and mirrors either. Your windshield should give a perfect clean, and the mirrors must be clear, to provide you with a better vision and assure safe driving.
