There’s nothing worse than getting stranded on the side of the road, unable to get your car started. But if you keep it in good condition, you can avoid the most common problems and make sure your car starts every time.
Have you ever wondered how to keep your car in good condition? It’s not as hard as you might think. Here are eight easy ways to help keep your car in good condition.
1. Learn How to Check the Fluids
If you want your vehicle to last, check the oil and other fluids regularly. Not only will it ensure that all fluid levels are in check, but it allows for early detection of potential problems by feeling their consistency, color, and smell (for example, burnt oil may indicate engine damage).
This way, you can catch even minor issues before they become big ones (and expensive ones), saving yourself money in the long run.
2 . Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Trunk
If you get stranded on the side of the road, a first aid kit, jumper cables, and flares can help you avoid being hit or getting into an accident.
There are some kits specifically made for keeping in your car that have emergency flares as well as more things to help if you’re stuck. Having these tools will also ensure that you remain safe until help arrives.
3 . Regularly Check Your Tires
A critical aspect of keeping your car in good condition is ensuring proper tire pressure at all times.
If your tires are not properly inflated or worn down too much, it can affect how your vehicle performs (and what types of fuel it uses). Did you know that properly inflated tires can improve gas mileage by as much as 3.3 percent? That’s because tires will last longer, affect car handling and increase safety.
So it’s best to check them regularly (before every trip) to make sure they are under proper pressure.
4 . Keep it Clean Inside and Out
If you want your car to look its best, regularly clean it both inside and outside. Wash the exterior with soap or car shampoo, then wipe down the entire vehicle with wax or polish.
You can do this yourself (or hire someone), but make sure to use supplies specifically made for cars. For instance, Armor All is great for getting rid of dirt on the interior without being too abrasive on materials that could peel over time.
If your driveways have caked-on dirt or gravel, you may want to invest in a pressure washer as well.
5 . Add Stabilizer to Your Gas Tank
When gas sits in your tank for long periods and is not used, it can turn into a corrosive acid. As a result, it will eat at the metal in your car’s fuel system and eventually cause damage.
To prevent this from happening and help ensure your car runs well, add a stabilizer every few months (especially if you only fill up occasionally). You can find this product at any auto store or gas station (and some places like Walmart as well).
6 . Deal with Small Issues Right Away
Sometimes it’s easy to ignore minor problems until they become big ones (and more expensive problems). For example, if your car window glass is chipped (or car window crack is developing), it’s best to fix it right away.
A mobile auto glass repair service can help prevent the chip from spreading across the entire windshield (which could make you lose visibility). While mobile windows can be repaired, sometimes it’s better to replace them rather than risk having an accident because of a cracked windshield.
7 . Take Your Car to an Auto Mechanic for an Oil Change
This one is simple: If you want your engine to last, have it regularly serviced by a trained mechanic. These check-ups will include everything from the oil being changed to the battery being checked.
It’s not a bad idea to schedule regular appointments once or twice a year, so they don’t catch something significant that could leave you stranded.
8. Keep Your Car Clean
Keeping your car clean is not just for aesthetic reasons–it’s also to improve the condition of your vehicle. By regularly cleaning your car, you can spot problems before they become major issues and fix them before they cause you to have to spend a lot of money.
For example, if your battery is draining or your oil is low, you could find out sooner if your car is clean.
As a driver, it’s essential that you take care of your car — both for yourself and other drivers on the road. If you follow these tips, you can help keep your car running like new for years to come. Remember that it is always better to catch issues before they become big problems (and extremely expensive ones), saving yourself both time and money in the long run.
