Do you take good care of your car? A recent study of motors on UK roads found the average car is lasting longer than ever, with one fifth over 13 years old. But while modern vehicles are generally more reliable and efficient, they still need regular TLC to stay that way.
Repair bills can come as a nasty shock, after all, particularly when added to the cost of purchase, insurance and fuel. Major faults may leave you struggling to make ends meet – though a bad credit loan could help out if it’s your first car and your credit profile is still a little thin.
So what can you do to help your ride reach its golden years? Read five key car maintenance tips below.
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Maintain your car’s battery
If you’re one of those who left their car untouched for too long during lockdown, you may have learnt the hard way that car batteries can go flat when unused.
Try to take your car out for a spin around once a week to get the battery going, even if only for a few minutes. You can also use what’s known as a trickle charger to give it a boost if you know you won’t be driving your car for a while.
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Keep fluids topped up
Like humans, cars need fluids to keep functioning properly. Failing to replenish your engine oil, coolant and windscreen washer is likely to cause you headaches later down the line.
It’s smart to check these fluid levels around once a fortnight and replace them when they dip too low. You’ll want to do this with your car parked on even ground to avoid skewing your readings.
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Monitor tyre condition
Considering your tyres are the final part responsible for propelling your vehicle, as well as stopping it, it makes sense to keep them in top condition.
It’s recommended to check your tyre pressure once a week, especially if driving regularly. Deflated tyres pose a risk to your life as well as increasing fuel consumption. Check your vehicle handbook for the manufacturer’s recommended pressure levels.
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Stick to regular servicing
It can be tempting to forgo servicing and save money when you haven’t noticed any issues. But sticking to regular service intervals can help to spot problems before they get worse – and therefore more expensive.
You’d be wise to budget for a ‘minor’ service each year and a ‘major’ service every two or three, where mechanics will perform more exhaustive checks.
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Drive smoothly
You may be tired of being told to drive sensibly – but doing so isn’t just safer for those around you. It’s also kinder to your car by reducing component wear and helping fuel go further.
Driving smoothly means accelerating gently, braking gradually and avoiding sharp turns where possible. Much of this comes down to anticipation, so make sure to keep an eye on what’s coming up ahead.
Do you follow these five tips? If not, start doing so to keep your car going for miles and years to come.
