The world is undergoing the most trying time due to the coronavirus pandemic. Governments around the world are in various levels of lockdown and stoppage of unessential activities. Economies are uncertain, and saving on food and money is on top of everyone’s mind understandably.
With the stoppage of most travels, most cars are inside garages standing idle but also saving on fuel. But did you know that keeping them parked still adds some cost to you? Yes, they do. Here’s how you can keep your car in good condition and, at the same time, save on cost, too.
7 Tips to Save Money on Your Car’s Operating Cost while on Lockdown
Following these seven tips will not only keep your car in running condition but will also save money for the extended lockdown period.
1-Maintain the Battery or Disconnect It
The battery is the most critical component to maintain if you want to keep your car in running condition. Some of the experts suggest maintaining, while many recommend removing the battery. If your vehicle is parked at home, you can easily keep the battery safe by following some measures.
- Regularly check the fluid level in the battery.
- Start your vehicle once a week and let it run for some time to charge it.
- Avoid turning your car on and off in quick succession to save battery power.
- If required, use a trickle charger to charge it.
In case you are unable to follow the above instructions, it would be wise to remove the battery from the vehicle altogether or at least disconnect the negative terminal. Rub petroleum jelly on the battery terminals to prevent rust.
2-Wheel and Brakes Maintenance
Wheel and brakes maintenance not only keeps your vehicle in running condition but also helps it pass roadworthy certification. If the lockdown period extends as is expected, it would be a great idea to keep tyres off the ground to avoid flat spots. You can do this by jacking all the tyres off the ground. Alternatively, you may also use wooden blocks.
Corrosion may lead your brakes to seize (and result to repair costs!), and you can avoid it by rolling your vehicle back and forth for some time. Keeping vehicle’s tyres off the ground may also save your brake pedals from corrosion. Try to park your car on a levelled surface to avoid using the hand brake and protect it from corrosion.
3-Take Time to Give It a Thorough Clean
Dirt, tree sap, bird droppings, and harsh weather may cause permanent damage to your car if parked for an extended period and left untreated. Therefore, it is always mandatory to wax your vehicle before parking it for lockdowns. Here, it is also pertinent to mention that use only the recommended cleaning agent for washing your car. You can shop it from an auto spare parts dealer or a registered online car part seller.
4-Use Covers
Always use covers to keep your vehicle in mint condition. The experts even recommend covering the intakes and outlets of the car too to prevent insects and rodents from getting in. Do not forget to remove these before starting your car after the COVID-19 lockdown ends. However, there is no need to cover your vehicle if you are parking it in a garage. It will help to evaporate moisture faster.
5-Park the Vehicle with a Full Tank
Another tip to keep your vehicle in running condition and avoid an instant mechanic visit is to park your car with a full tank. However, it might not seem a good idea for many owners, but it can help to prevent rust forming on the inside of the fuel tank. Rust in the fuel tank may block the fuel supply to the engine, and your car may stop on the road. Always ensure that the fuel tank is correctly sealed before filling it. You can also use a fuel stabiliser to extend its lifespan.
6-Top Up Essential Liquids
Apart from fuel, there are many vital liquids in your vehicle. So before you take your car on the road after the lockdown, check the level of these liquids and top up if needed. It is far better to top up fresh engine oil after draining the used oil and its corrosive elements from the engine. Take your vehicle for one last essential trip to ensure the circulation of fresh oil in the engine. Similarly, check the other liquids like brake oil, coolant, and water level before taking your car out of the garage.
7-Check with Your Insurers
Last but not least, check with your vehicle insurer for some relief in insurance during the lockdown period. Many insurance companies around the world are offering assistance to customers to somehow help cushion the impact of the pandemic. For USA drivers, two of their biggest insurers (Allstate and American Family Mutual) have both announced substantial refunds on account of reduced risks due to the lockdown. However, none of the Australian insurance companies have yet announced a similar relief. Still, some companies are promising that they will provide 90-day payment holidays or offer another type of premium, so contact your ensurer to know what forms of savings you can avail.
While you're on lockdown, use the time to know more about making the most of your resources and saving on unnecessary expenses. If you found this article helpful, you may also like many of the resources we have at Carpart.com.au.
By Ghazanfar