Your car is probably among your most valuable possessions on which you depend heavily. Living without a car is unimaginable nowadays because it is how we get to work, take our kids to school, and get a lot of things done. There’s rarely a day when we don’t use it, thus, taking care of this investment has become increasingly important.
Proper care of a car not only decreases maintenance expenses but also prolongs its lifespan and makes the journey smooth and reliable. As an owner, you can follow these ten simple tips to increase the lifespan of your car:
1. Periodic Checking and Replacement of Fluids
Periodic checking and replacement of fluids in a car can increase its lifespan. Oil is the most important fluid needed for the smooth operation of the engine. It lowers the friction between the moving parts and cools down the engine. Auto manufacturers recommend changing the oil every 3,000 to 5,000 kilometres because it becomes old and grimy. Periodic replacement of oil increases the lifespan of the engine and makes your car more reliable for the journey. There are also many other fluids in the cars that optimise their performance. Always keep checking those fluids like transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and mixed coolant. Prefer buying these fluids from an authorised car parts dealer.
2. Regularly Swap Filters to Save your Engine from Debris
You can extend the lifespan of your car by swapping filters regularly. There are two types of filters in your car, the air filter and the oil filter. The air filter cleans the air while the oil filter traps abrasive sediments from the oil. Usually, filter replacement how-to’s are given in the owners’ manuals, but the frequency depends on your environment. Air and oil filters are widely available in most aftermarket car parts outlets in your area.
3. Inspect Tyres by Rotating
Car tyres need timely rotation and proper care to increase your car’s fuel efficiency and longevity. Make it a point to check the air pressure and condition of the tyres every two weeks. Tyres are your car's direct connection to the road, so inspecting it is vital to your safety. Tyre inflation of 5 psi is recommended for better handling.
4. Never Ignore Minor Repairs
Always be attentive while driving and listen to unusual noises. Get the noisy parts repaired or replaced as soon as possible because minor issues can become big ones if left unattended. Worse, they can prove dangerous not only for your vehicle but also for your wallet. You can also avoid minor repairs by taking your car to a local garage for regular checkups. To increase the lifespan of your car, always buy replacement parts from reliable auto parts dealers and get the services of certified car mechanics.
5. Wash and Wax Your Car to Keep it Clean
The most basic of all these tips is to regularly clean your car to decrease wear and tear and corrosion. Wash and wax your car at regular intervals to avoid grit and grime reaching the moving parts. Bird droppings can play havoc with the paintwork if left uncleaned. Park at shaded areas or in the garage to avoid frequent washes.
6. Drive Carefully
The way you handle and drive your car contributes to its longevity. Don’t drive as if you were a racing sensation. Slow and gentle driving will not only decrease the wear and tear of your car but also enable you to hear unusual sounds arising from its parts. Learn more about how your car works – its vast systems, all the gears and parts – and develop a feeling of mechanical sympathy towards this machine.
7. Read Your Car’s Owners’ Manual
Many car owners neglect a very important responsibility that comes with owning a car – not reading the owner's manual. It contains valuable information about various parts of your car and tells you about its requirements. It will tell you about periodic servicing, replacement of various car parts, and the recommended sources for auto spares, among many things. Changing of fluids, filters, and other frequently replaced car components according to the schedule given in the manual makes your car safe and reliable for travelling.
8. Monitor the Thickness of Brake Pads to Save the Metal
Another tip to increase the lifespan of your car is to continually monitor the brake pads to save brake disks and callipers. Proper functioning of brake pads not only ensures safe travelling but also decreases the wear and tear in the braking system of the car. Take special note of the thickness of new brake pads and get them replaced before they’re totally worn. Decreased thickness of brake pads will wear the metal inside and damage brake disks that are costlier than pads to replace.
9. Keep a Regular Check on the Headlights
Brightness and visibility are the backbones of night driving. Therefore, always keep a regular check on the headlights to spot any differences. Most of the auto manufacturers use halogen bulbs in headlights that burn out fast. Your car's auto electrical supplies also play a crucial role in extending the life of these halogen bulbs. Replace the headlights regularly if you want to your car to last long.
Summing up, our driving attitude and proper maintenance play a vital role in enhancing the longevity of our cars. When sourcing replacement parts, only buy from trusted online auto parts sellers, such as those you will find from Carpart.com.au.