Our car is one of our most valuable assets. And we rely on it a lot. Nowadays, thanks in part to car loans with longer payment plans, people are keeping their vehicles for longer before replacing or upgrading them. Proper maintenance will help your car last as long as possible with as few repairs as possible, so it’s more important than ever to do this.
Ensure Consistent Maintenance
Regular maintenance is one of the most important steps you can take to extend the life of your used car. Extend the lifespan of your vehicle by regularly keeping all major parts in check. Check the engine, coolant and oil regularly and never forget to change fluids. By doing so, you can ensure that your engine is running properly and performing as it should. In addition, it is strongly recommended that you follow the maintenance schedule in your vehicle handbook.
When Driving Slowly
Excessive speeding causes more damage to your engine and other parts of your car. So, to protect your engine, make sure you do not exceed the speed limit and keep an eye on your fuel consumption.
Always Check The Oil
Many car owners take checking their vehicle’s oil for granted. Some do not follow this maintenance advice at all, while others wait a while. The life of your car will be significantly extended if you change your oil on schedule. Make it a routine to have a full oil change every three months.
Maintain A Steady Driving Speed
The health of your engine is affected by both how smoothly and how fast you drive. If you drive irregularly and stop and start frequently, you will only shorten the life of your vehicle. This is because every time you accelerate or decelerate, your car will have to work harder. If you have to accelerate, make sure you do it gradually. If you drive more smoothly, you will be less likely to damage your engine.
Check Tyre Pressure Regularly
Checking your tyre pressure regularly can help protect your car from everyday shocks. The fewer bumps and shocks it encounters, the less wear and tear on your car’s suspension. There’s also less chance of loosening internal components. There is no reason to take this for granted, as it is a very simple task. It is also an essential step in extending the life of your used vehicle.
Don’t Forget To Wax And Lubricate
The body of your car is vulnerable to rust and scratches, especially after prolonged use. To keep your car in good condition and stop its natural deterioration, wax it every six months. Don’t forget to lubricate the hinges and locks to ensure it always works properly.
Change The Oil Filter
The oil filter is easily clogged with impurities, which reduces its efficiency. These impurities can later cause damage to the car’s sensitive parts, especially the engine. So, take the time to change the filter every three months before something unwanted happens.
Don’t Overload Your Vehicle
Even if you can technically carry heavy loads in a small second-hand car, don’t. Doing so will put a strain on your engine, which could eventually lead to engine failure. Therefore, to ensure the safety and protection of your engine, check the owner’s manual if it specifies the load your vehicle is allowed to carry. To avoid straining the engine, it is also best to remove unnecessary weight while driving, such as bulky tools, boxes and other items that are not really needed.
