A vehicle is an investment. It’s something we save for. Take out loans for. Borrow money from family for.
It’s a necessary part of our lives in today’s fast-paced world.
It’s something we want to keep around and in good physical and working order for as long as we can.
Do you know how to extend the life of your vehicle?
It’s easier than you think.
As a trusted local garage in Tyler, East Texas, Stewart’s Donnybrook Automotive believes it’s important to know how to maintain your vehicle and keep it in the best possible condition for the longest possible time. Covering those bases means you’re not just extending the life of your car but also the value of your investment.Here are some Tips and Tricks to make your vehicle and your investment last longer:
Regular maintenance is key to maintaining the longevity of your car, truck, or SUV. Too often, we put off the simple, routine maintenance that keeps our vehicle healthy long-term. However, you can prevent expensive repairs and breakdowns by keeping a regular upkeep schedule and following the repair suggestions of your trusted local mechanic. Whether it’s changing a belt, fixing the air conditioner, changing the oil filter, or any other regular maintenance necessary for your car, staying consistent and on top of it will make your vehicle last longer and save you money.
Work with a local garage you trust and who knows your vehicle. It’s important to take charge of your car repair. Part of that is researching and choosing a local mechanic that knows you and your vehicle. This relationship is vital for many reasons, but a mechanic with a personal relationship with you and your vehicle makes a big difference in everything from safety to saving money. A trusted local mechanic does more than perform your oil change and vehicle repair. They’ll get to know your vehicle and, in doing so, will be better able to diagnose any issues that might arise and will have a better understanding of your car’s unique needs. In trusting your vehicle with your life, you’re also putting that trust in your mechanic. It’s also good to find a local mechanic that can help with evening and weekend roadside assistance.
Keep your vehicle clean inside and outside. Maintaining the cleanliness of your car is something you can control when it comes to extending its’ life. In keeping your car in good condition, you’re also extending its’ value. Most people pay attention to cosmetic issues when contemplating buying a new car. If it doesn’t look good, chances are, no one will want to buy it. Make sure to keep it vacuumed and clean up any sticky messes immediately so they don’t do long-term damage to your car’s interior. Keeping your car clean will help prevent issues like clogged vents from happening. And don’t forget the exterior. Especially if you live in a place that uses salt on the road, or is near the ocean, keeping your car washed can make a huge difference in how long it lasts. Rust causes major vehicle damage, and it happens fast. Make sure you keep your vehicle’s underbody, as well as exterior clean. Setting up a regular cleaning schedule can help make sure you’re sticking with this routine.
Tire maintenance is an important way to maintain the lifetime of your vehicle. Tires can often mean the difference between safe travels and an accident. Don’t just check the warning lights on your dashboard—it’s also crucial to regularly check your tires and have them checked. Making sure the air pressure is good can save you from being on the side of the road with a flat tire. If you’re noticing a consistent decrease in air pressure in one or more tires, you might have a leak somewhere. Make sure you have your trusted mechanic check it right away. Also, check the tread. Worn tire treads can be dangerous—especially in wet or slippery weather. Next time you have routine maintenance on your car, have your mechanic check your tire tread. A new tire costs a lot less than a new car!
Your vehicle’s oil and filters help keep all the important components in your engine running smoothly and cleanly. If either are allowed to get dirty or deteriorate, your car’s engine is the next thing to go. Plan for regularly scheduled oil changes, during which the mechanic should check your car’s filters. If you’re not sure if that’s been done, make sure to ask.
Park in a garage or keep covered. This is especially important if you live in areas of high wind (branches and debris can cause major damage, if not total your vehicle); areas with strong sunlight (high heat can damage both the interior and exterior of our car); near the ocean (salt causes major rust damage); or snowy areas (for obvious reasons). If you’re not able to park your vehicle inside, then using a car cover can help protect against some of these issues.
Have a basic understanding of your vehicle—warning lights, sounds, leaks, fluid levels, brakes, belts. If you have even a small understanding of the workings of your vehicle, it can make a big difference in recognizing when there’s a problem and taking care of it before it becomes something major.
These are just a few tips and tricks to extend the life of your vehicle. If you have more specific questions about extending the life of your vehicle, just give Gary or Dean a call at Stewart’s Donnybrook Automotive for more helpful tips!
