Automobiles are one of the biggest investments most people will make, and like any other major purchase, you want to get as much use out of them as possible. Properly caring for your car through regular maintenance will not only help extend its lifespan but also keep it running smoothly and efficiently. Here are a few key ways that auto maintenance can help extend your car’s lifespan.
Preventative Care
Auto maintenance is imperative to keeping your car running well. By regularly inspecting and servicing your vehicle’s belts, wiring, and fluid levels, potential problems can be caught early on and fixed before they become larger and more expensive to repair. Choose your service provider based on your car’s specific needs, as some automakers only release service bulletins to certified shops, meaning your long-time family mechanic working from their garage might not be privy to important alerts about your vehicle. Save all service records in case you need them for warranty service.
The Oft Forgotten Suspension
Your car’s suspension system is integral to its operation, yet it is often one of the most neglected areas when it comes to maintenance. While they’re under the car and out of sight, your car’s shocks and struts play a vital role in keeping the tires in contact with the road, providing steering stability and absorbing bumps to give you a smooth ride. Over time, they can become worn and no longer function properly, leading to a jarring ride and decreased handling. Because these systems work in tandem, poor maintenance on one will inevitably affect the other. Have your suspension system checked regularly to avoid these problems.
Tires
Your car’s tires are the only part of the vehicle that actually touches the road, so it’s important to keep them in good condition. If you notice that your vehicle starts veering toward a certain direction, one of your tires could be damaged. Check your tire pressure monthly and have them rotated and balanced every 5,000 miles or so. This will help extend their lifespan and improve your gas mileage. When it comes time to replace your tires, consider that automakers work with tire manufacturers to create tires that work best with their autos. So, if you have a Nissan, consider putting Nissan tires on it when it comes time to change them. Keeping your car parts as close as they were when your car was brand new will help it perform better in the long run.
Regular Washes
While it might seem frivolous, regular washes can extend the lifespan of your car’s paint job and prevent rust. Bird droppings, tree sap, and other debris can cause irreparable damage to your paint if left for too long. So, even if you don’t have time for a full wash, at least rinse it off regularly to prevent long-term damage.
Properly maintaining your car will help extend its lifespan and keep it running smoothly and looking good for years to come. By following these suggestions, you can enjoy your car for longer and get the most out of your investment.
