10 Ways to Extend the Lifespan of Your Car
Thinking about buying a new car? If so, you’ve probably already researched the different models and types of vehicles available. Maybe you’ve even test-driven a few to see which model suits best with you. The next logical step for most people is to purchase that car! However, before you sign on the dotted line, there are a few things you should know first. After all, owning a car isn’t just about the initial cost; you also need to consider the costs of owning one.
You might like your new car until it stops working or leaking fluids or oil somewhere unexpected. That’s why it pays to know tips for extending your car’s lifespan. Here are 10 ways to extend the lifespan of your vehicle:
Familiarize yourself with the model and owners manual
The first step to extending the lifespan of your car is getting to know your vehicle inside and out. While it may seem obvious, it’s easy to lose track of the value of doing your research on the model you’re thinking of buying. It’s like buying a pair of shoes. You read all the labels, check the sizes, and ensure they fit.
The same goes for buying a car: you need to know the size of the boot (trunk), the size of the seats, and the leg room inside the car. You also need to check that the vehicle has all the features you need and that they work. This may include power windows, a CD player or heated seats, or even the type of transmission the car runs on. You’ll also need to read through the owner’s manual. This will show you how to maintain and care for your vehicle and include any common issues with the model.
Research any common issues so you know what to expect
As well as researching the model you’re thinking of buying, it’s also worth looking into the common issues that can come with that model. This will give you an idea of what expenses you may need to budget for in the future. For example, specific models tend to have more engine or transmission problems than others. If you know that before you buy the model, you can negotiate a lower price for the car, so you’re not out of pocket as soon as you hit the road.
If you are buying a used car, it is always a good idea to have a mechanic do a thorough inspection of the vehicle before buying it to ensure it is in good condition and has no issues you may be unaware of. This will help maintain the car’s lifespan and keep the costs down.
Keep your car clean inside and out
One of the best ways to extend the lifespan of your car is to keep it clean inside and out. This means clearing our rubbish, giving it a vacuum, and removing contaminants from all areas of your vehicle, internally and externally; this will help remove anything that could damage your car and affect how it looks.
Whether you clean your car yourself, book it in for a car wash, or have complete detail, you should ensure all parts are cleaned as thoroughly as possible for that new car smell. And when you’re done, why not keep odors at bay with some in-car air fresheners that can help remove stubborn odors from eating or drinking in the car. Nowadays, you can get custom picture air fresheners for your car for that added personal touch.
Use the correct tires
To have a safe and reliable car, it is essential to have the right tires. Tires keep your car connected to the road, so it is necessary to have tires that are in good condition and the correct size for your car. If you don’t have the right tires for your car, it can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, decreased handling, and even a loss of control while driving.
One of the most important things to remember about your tires is that they need to be rotated every 5,000 miles. This will help them wear evenly and prolong the life of your tires. Additionally, you should constantly monitor your tire pressure and ensure they are correctly inflated. Driving on under-inflated tires can decrease fuel efficiency by up to 3% and increase the chances of a blowout.
Have a regular service
Your car’s engine will always last longer if it is serviced regularly. It’s essential to have your oil changed as part of scheduled service and have any features worn out replaced. Most manufacturers now offer a service interval for cars in the region of 10,000 miles (16,000 km). Beyond this, your vehicle will begin to experience wear and tear at a faster rate and will be more likely to break down.
You should also have a transmission and brake fluid flushed and replaced regularly. If your car is 10 years old, for example, you’ll want to get these replaced before the 5000 miles (8000 km) mark.
Change your oil
Changing your car’s oil is essential to your regular maintenance schedule. It provides your car’s engine with vital lubrication, which keeps it running smoothly and prevents damage. As your car’s engine ages, it will produce less oil. This is an early sign that it’s time for a change. It’s also a good idea to change your oil regularly, as not all oil is created equal. Most car engines now use synthetic oil, refined to a far higher degree than the synthetic oil used in the past. Synthetic oil has a higher concentration of additives that help the engine run more efficiently and reduces emissions.
Invest in quality aftermarket parts
As your car’s engine gets older, it will need to be maintained more frequently. This is where investing in aftermarket parts comes in. Quality parts such as coil-over suspension, a correctly maintained exhaust system, and a gearbox that has been appropriately serviced can help extend the life of your car. Use brands with a reputable reputation and look for reviews on third-party forums.
You’ll want to invest in aftermarket parts designed to help your car last longer. For example, a set of quality tires that are 10 years old are likely to be at the end of their life. Invest in a quality set of tires that have been designed to last longer.
Up your revs from time to time
Research shows that revving your engine at low revs can help clean the combustion chamber and increase fuel efficiency. While it may seem like an unnecessary step to take, it’s an important one. Cars that are 10 years old should be revved at low revs between 700 and 900 RPM.
When revving your car at higher revs, you burn more fuel and are more likely to experience engine wear and tear. It’s recommended to rev your engine lower, such as at 1000 revs, which allows you to rev your car at a lower rev and minimizes wear and tear on your car.
Use the right tires for your car
Again, this may seem like common sense, but you’d be amazed how many people don’t consider this. Many people replace their tires when they’re 10 years old, but most tires are designed to last for around that distance. When you change the tires on your car, be sure to replace them with those that are designed to last longer. Tires designed to last longer will improve your car’s fuel efficiency by maximizing its grip and reducing the wear and tear on your car’s tires.
Protect your car from the elements
Water, salt, and sand will damage your car if you leave it exposed to the elements. Make sure to keep your car under a covered, dry area whenever possible, especially if you live in an area prone to harsh weather conditions. If you drive your car to work, you should park it under a covered walkway or a building when you’re not in it. You’ll also want to regularly wash your car with a high-quality water-based cleaner and condition your car’s paint with a high-quality, scratch-resistant wax or sealant.
