Most of us want our cars to look and run great for as long as possible. And, keeping your vehicle in tip-top condition, inside and out, also increases its value when it’s time to sell or trade in. Many drivers understand the importance of routine vehicle maintenance and upkeep like oil changes, tire rotations, replacing worn brake pads, belts and hoses. But in addition to those, most owners are not aware that there are several other easy ways to help ensure that your car ages well as the miles add up. Here are 5 of the more simpler ones now.
All vehicles have a maximum carrying capacity that can be found in the owner’s manual. Exceeding that specified weight limit, notably on long trips, can cause serious damage to your car. That’s because the more a vehicle weighs, the harder the engine, transmission and brakes have to work. For example, if you’re towing a heavy trailer cross-country with a subcompact that’s full of passengers, you’re just asking for trouble.
Your car’s transmission consists of hundreds of moving parts that get your vehicle moving, and that takes a lot of force and friction. Transmission fluid cools and lubricates all those various components. Changing your transmission fluid and filter at the manufacturer-recommended intervals located in the owner’s manual will keep your vehicle performing smoothly. A failure to do so can lead to problems like sluggish acceleration, poor shifting, and even a total transmission failure.
Oil serves as the lifeblood of your car’s engine, and when your vehicle’s been sitting for several hours you need to let it circulate first before heading out on the road. After starting your car, let it idle for at least 30 seconds to allow for the oil pump to do its job, the fluid to warm up, and the motor’s moving parts to lubricate. Not doing so creates added friction within the engine components, which leads to faster wear times. Also, get an oil and filter change every 3500 to 4000 miles. Taking these simple steps will prolong your engine’s lifespan.
Remember when you first learned to drive, and your parents would warn you about having a “lead foot” whenever you accelerated too fast? Over time today’s engines get carbon buildup which can diminish performance. Every few hundred miles you need to accelerate your vehicle quickly until the engine revolutions, measured in RPMs, “redline” (usually 6,000 RPMs) on your dash’s tachometer. This is best done while merging onto an expressway, but never do so unless the engine is fully warmed up. “Punching” the accelerator occasionally will help prevent carbon gunk from building up in your engine and prolong its life.
Your car’s exterior takes a beating year-around from paint-damaging forces like road salt, the sun, bird droppings, bug guts and more. The interior also gets its share of abuse from dirt, pets, spilled beverages, heat and cold. As a result, it’s wise to detail your car inside and out several times a year to remove harmful substances and protect all the exposed surfaces. If you don’t have the time or interest in doing it yourself, there are professional detailers available that will keep your vehicle’s interior and exterior looking new and lasting longer.
When your car’s been in even a minor fender bender, you need to have it inspected at a reliable body shop nearby to ensure that it lasts longer. If there’s been even slight damage to the body, rust can form later. Even low-impact accidents can compromise your car’s electrical and warning systems, along with your suspension and frame. It’s also a good idea to have a collision repair shop inspect the engine and other mechanical parts to ensure your safety and restore your peace-of-mind. Don’t take chances with your vehicle’s future when body shop technicians have the training, equipment and experience to ensure that your car will look and perform better for many years to come. Most collision repair shops also provide affordable auto detailing services for your convenience. To search your zip code now for a better auto body shop in your area, visit: www.carwise.com.
