Whether you drive frequently or less than average, your car can’t maintain itself. With that in mind, you must do what you can to keep your vehicle running smoothly at all times. There’s nothing worse than engine troubles or letting your car’s value decrease; therefore, you should do the general maintenance now to avoid more extensive and expensive repairs down the road. Follow along to learn a few of the best car care tips to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape.
Change Your Oil as Needed
Oil is one of the most important factors when it comes to keeping your car running smoothly. With that in mind, you should check your oil at least once each month to ensure the level is good and there’s no noticeable buildup. Additionally, you should change your oil every 3,000-6,000 miles, depending on the oil grade you use.
Motor oil lubricates the interior of your car’s engine, making it possible for it to move your vehicle forward. If you don’t change your oil regularly, you may experience nasty buildups or more extensive issues with your motor.
Maintain Your Tires
Unfortunately, many drivers often overlook their tires when it comes to car maintenance. However, they’re easily one of the most essential features of a vehicle. Your tires provide a buffer between your car and the road; therefore, you should frequently check and maintain your tires to ensure your safety. While many cars have built-in tire pressure sensors, it can’t hurt to check your pressure every few weeks to ensure they’re at an appropriate measure.
Aside from checking the pressure, you should also rotate your tires every 15,000 miles to extend their life by reducing the wear and tear. Checking your car’s alignment is another way to ensure your tires wear evenly.
Keep It Clean
There’s nothing better than a clean, fresh, sleek vehicle—especially when it’s your own. However, washing your car regularly serves a larger purpose than making it look good. Washing and waxing the exterior is the best way to protect your vehicle from rust and other damage, and it also helps retain resale value. You can always hire someone to do maintenance and detailing, but knowing the benefits of detailing at home can help you decide what’s best for you.
Drive Responsibly
This may seem like a no-brainer, but some people are incredibly rough on their vehicles simply because they drive recklessly. Fast cornering, slamming on the brakes, and putting the pedal to the metal are all surefire ways to increase your vehicle’s overall wear and tear. Driving with care is the best way to keep your ride in great condition for many years to come.
With these car care tips to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape, you can maintain your ride easily. By caring for your car in advance, you may be able to avoid or lessen the number of extensive repairs. In the long run, preventative maintenance is always better than breaking down at the most inconvenient time.
