Keeping your car in top condition improves the performance and prolongs the life of your vehicle. Whether you have a European car, or an Australian or Japanese make, the same principle applies. There are a number of things you can do to keep your vehicle at its best. Here are 5 Automotive tips and Advice to reduce wear and tear and keep your car running smoothly.
1. Regular Maintenance Services
Regular services, particularly for prestige or European cars, is more important than ever as today’s vehicles have evolved into a complicated technical maze that most owners cannot navigate. This applies to all vehicles, not only European cars. Regular servicing by accredited, professional, experienced and reliable mechanics will ensure that your vehicle continues to run smoothly and efficiently. A mechanic, who specializes in your vehicle type will keep your car at top performance level and identify wear and tear of parts before they become chronic or detrimental. Most European car manufacturers endorse and accredit specialist mechanics to service their vehicles; these workshops are familiar your vehicle and any issues that may arise. They also use original parts for repairs. It may be tempting to save money on replacement or 2nd hand parts, or by increasing the time between services, however the result is increased wear to your vehicle and reduced resale value. Cost cutting can end up costing more if parts fail and are not under the manufacturer’s warranty.
2. Check Fluid Levels
Between services, check your car’s fluid levels, these include engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, radiator coolant, power steering and windscreen wiper fluids. This may not always be easy. However, don’t ignore warning lights on your dashboard. For most of the fluids in your car there are warning mechanisms indicating any issues such as engine overheating or potential brake failure …if one of the warning lights illuminate, then have it checked by your mechanic. It’s important to regularly check the level of your car’s g13 coolant as low levels can cause engine overheating and potentially lead to costly repairs. It may be an easy fix, but if not, then having the problem checked will save you from a potential breakdown. Things like wiper fluid is easier for you to rectify yourself and will reduce wear on your wipers and prevent smearing on the windscreen which can be hazardous when driving.
3. Keep Your Tyres Healthy
The tyres are the direct contact between your vehicle and the road. Keeping up to date with the condition of your tyres is an important safety precaution.
Tyre pressure impacts on the fuel economy as well as driver handling and comfort on the road. Accurate tyre pressure reduces wear on the tread. Regular tyre pressure checks (as recommended by the manufacturer) can be done at most service stations.
Tyre rotation and wheel alignment will improve safety and fuel economy of your vehicle. Most manufacturers recommend regular tyre rotation, balance and alignment, check your vehicle’s manual for the recommendation for your vehicle. Regular rotation and wheel alignment spreads wear on the tyre tread and improves the overall running of your vehicle on the road.
4. Fuel Economy
Regularly check the fuel consumption of your car, particularly with European cars. When your vehicle is operating efficiently, it will use fuel at a steady rate. If you notice changes to the rate of fuel consumption for no obvious reason, then your car may not be operating at its best. Keep an eye on the odometer and trip reading so that you are aware of any changes. Before reporting to your mechanic there are a couple of common reasons for changes to fuel economy that you can check; such as loss of tyre pressure, and sudden accelerating or braking.
5. Read The Owner’s Manual
Knowing your vehicle’s Owner’s Manual, particularly if you have a European car, may save some expensive vehicle repairs. By reading the Owner’s manual you will know the warning symbols and what they mean, alerting you to its potential urgency, before discussing the issue with your mechanic. The manual also recommends correct fuel type, tyre pressure level etc. and other trouble shooting options to keep your vehicle working at its full potential.
6. Keep Your Car Clean
A clean car, externally and internally, will extend the life and value of your vehicle. Regular washing protects the paint surface from damage from sun, salt, dust, road grime, air pollution, and animal and bird droppings…even if your car is regularly parked in a garage. These pollutants corrode the paint surface and eventually the metal beneath. Car body sealants help protect the paintwork, but regular cleaning maintains the paintwork and the value of your vehicle in the long run. Timeless Car Cleaning of the interior reduces dust, dirt and grime which become embedded in the carpets and upholstery. Regular cleaning prevents this from building up and keeps your car smelling fresh and clean. Replacing worn and frayed floor mats is a safety precaution preventing catches while driving.
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