Seeing as your car will be one of the biggest investments you make, it is in your interest to keep it in good shape for as long as possible. Not only does good general maintenance mean that you can save money on costly repairs, you can also extend the life of your car. This article will look at 8 ways you can proactively help to keep your car running for longer.
1) Change the oil regularly
Changing your oil frequently keeps your engine in good condition and running smoothly. Refreshing the oil keeps dirt and corrosive materials out of the engine which can reduce efficiency and lead to increased wear and tear. It is recommended that you should change the oil every 3000-5000 miles (check your owner’s manual for model-specific advice). This can be carried out when your car gets serviced.
2) Replace fluids
All the other fluids your car relies on also need to be checked periodically. This includes brake fluid, coolant, transmission fluid and power steering fluid. Fluids should not be left to get to the stage where they discolour and regular checks can make sure fluid levels are topped up and any leaks are recognised. Fluid checks and top ups are part of a routine car servicing.
3) Rotate your tyres
Rotating your tyres can help balance any uneven wear on the tyre tread and will subsequently help elongate tyre life. You should check your owner’s manual for recommendations on the frequency of rotation, but generally, twice a year is a good estimation. You can get your tyres rotated when you take your car for servicing.
4) Keep tyres inflated
Maintaining the correct tyre pressure can notably improve fuel efficiency and the longevity of your tyres. Over time, this measure can therefore save you money. Check your owner’s manual for your vehicle’s recommended tyre pressure levels.
5) Wash your car regularly
Washing your car isn’t just beneficial for keeping your car looking good, it can also help maintain the car body. Dirt and salt from roads can damage the car body, leading to rust and corrosion if left unchecked. Frequent car washing can prevent the need for extensive body repairs later down the line.
6) Cover up
If possible, it is best to try and keep your car in a garage to protect it from the elements and any potential damage it could incur from sitting in the open. Not only can your car avoid frost and snow, but sitting in sunlight can also damage paintwork and discolour upholstery.
7) Be a responsible driver
Wild and erratic driving is bad driving behaviour and bad for your car. Bursts of acceleration, sudden stops and starts and tearing round corners are all sure ways to put unnecessary stress on your vehicle. Eventually, this will lead to more wear and tear and your car will pack it in quicker.
8) Know your car and the owner’s manual
It is easy to neglect looking through the owner’s manual, but it is filled with useful information, specific to your vehicle, which will help you maintain it better. Some of the above tips rely on you knowing what your car needs and the only way you find this out is through the owner’s manual. Keeping up to date with the recommended maintenance schedule is a great way to avoid problems arising.
Following these 8 tips should help extend the life of your car by being savvy and proactive. Many of these helpful maintenance procedures can be carried out by a professional when you take your car for servicing. At Citroen-Peugeot Specialists, our mechanics can carry out high quality servicing across any car model to help ensure your vehicle stays in excellent condition for longer.