Maintenance 101: How to Keep Your Car in Good Shape for Years

The car in your garage needs more than regular visits to the service centre to keep running smoothly for years. It requires constant care from your side to make sure different components are in good shape.

You may want to apply for guaranteed loans to invest a little more in its performance and comfort. However, it will not make your car damage-proof from ill-maintenance. Here we have mentioned some tips to maintain your car in the perfect condition.

Read the Owner’s Manual

People prefer exploring different features in their car instead of reading the owner’s manual, where everything is already mentioned. Not only the features, but the manual also contains essential details about the car that comes handy while driving it. You get to know the recommended time for service, oil change, and other essential bits of help.

These manuals are not about teaching you how to drive. Therefore, even if you are a seasoned driver, we recommend you to go through it at least once.

Engine Oil

Engine oil is vital for the engine to keep it healthy and to run. You are required to change it on regular intervals to prevent any damage. The modern cars come with a digital gauge to check the engine oil level. Older makes have a dipstick for the purpose.

You should ask the mechanic about the minimum level that you need to maintain. They will also teach you how to check the engine oil level in your car.

Other Fluids

Some other fluids as well in a car need time-to-time refilling. These include brake fluid, coolant, and power-steering fluid. Do not fill above the recommended level.

As suggested above, you can take help from a mechanic to know what level works for your car. The regular refilling of these fuels ensures smooth operations while saving you repair shop visits.

Batteries

Your car will not get a starting push without a battery. A damaged battery can leave you helpless in the middle of nowhere. Modern batteries require you to check them now and then.

Make sure you take your car out for a drive at least twice a week. Check its terminals for damage or rusting over time. Even if the battery is damaged, you will find it very easy to replace.

Tyre Pressure

Tyre pressure makes the vehicle handling easy and reduces fuel consumption. You need to check it at least once in 7-10 days. Take help from the owner’s manual for recommended tyre pressure from the manufacturer.

Under-inflation reduces the life of tyres largely. While the over-inflation posses the risk of tyre burst. Expect tyre replacement after every 2-3 years. If you are short on budget, you can apply for guaranteed loans to get help with the replacement.

Air Filter

A dusty air filter will prevent the engine from working efficiently. You need to check and clean the air filter of the car once in a month. The task is quite simple, watch a video online and learn it within minutes. The modern cars have made it easier to access and cleaned the air filter even for amateur mechanics.

If you drive in a dusty region, consider reducing the time to recheck the filter. The dust accumulated on it can substantially reduce engine performance.

Wheel Alignment

Wheel alignment is a critical security attribute while driving the car on busy roads. It makes sure the car handles precisely the way the driver wants it to be. Car drifting to side while driving in a straight line is a sign to get wheel alignment adjusted.

Visit any authorised wheel alignment centre and let them do the job for you. While you’re at it, make sure the wheels are rotating freely, and there is no rusting on them.

Wipers

The wipers on your windshield always face the extreme weather. They can get damaged over time and may scratch the windshield. Therefore, increasing the repair bill even more.
Check your wipers now and then to make sure they are in good shape. You can replace them every 2-3 years. You don’t need any tools to install new wiper blades.

Rattling Sound from Car

Take your car to a service station if you hear it make any rattling sound. Generally, the sound comes out from under the chassis. It might indicate a bigger problem that best is sorted out earlier to reduce damage.

Clean the Interior and Exterior

The interior and exterior of the car will have no impact on the performance, but it doesn’t mean you ignore them. Wash your car once every week from inside and outside. It will keep your ride shining and protect its paint.

Make strict rules about behaviour inside the car. Do not let anyone dump food items, bottles, and other items inside the car. Make a habit of taking your car to carwash after every long drive.