The Ultimate Vehicle Maintenance Guide for Long-Term Durability
May 2, 2023
5 min read
Owning a car can be expensive and time-consuming. Regular maintenance is essential to maximizing your vehicle's life and ensuring it runs smoothly. Taking steps to ensure your car lasts longer can save you time, money, and energy in the long run.
Complete Guide to Maintaining Your Vehicle's Performance
It pays to stay proactive with its upkeep to ensure your vehicle can transport you on life's journeys. Follow this comprehensive checklist each year and enjoy knowing that your beloved car will remain reliable for years.
1. Change fluids regularly.
Regularly changing the oil, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluids will ensure all engine components are well-lubricated and running efficiently. In addition, motor oil breaks down over time due to heat exposure, so regular oil changes help remove harmful contaminants from the motor. If left unchecked, these contaminants can accumulate and cause engine damage.
Coolant helps keep engines running at their optimal temperature and prevents corrosion from occurring inside the cooling system's tight spaces. Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid that allows transfer force from pressing the brake pedal into motion that stops your car. Power steering fluid allows easier maneuvering by reducing friction between steering components when turning corners or parking.
2. Minimize parking brake use.
It's important to understand that using the emergency parking brake too often can damage your car. If you plan on leaving your vehicle parked for an extended period with the parking brake engaged, it can cause the brake pads to stick to other components in your car, ultimately resulting in more harm than good.
To avoid this, remember to disengage the parking brake before leaving your car parked, as this will prevent any unnecessary damage from occurring.
3. Schedule professional inspections.
Guard against expensive repairs by having your car professionally inspected regularly. This proactive approach allows for any potential issues to be identified before becoming more severe and costly, ensuring you can drive safely without breaking the bank.
The inspector will check for items like proper tire pressure, engine performance, brakes, suspension, wipers, headlights/taillights, rust/corrosion build-up undercarriage, transmission fluid levels, and condition of hoses/belts/filters, etc.
4. Store your car safely.
Keeping your car in a covered garage can significantly increase its lifespan by protecting it from harsh elements like hail, bird droppings, and leaves. This extra care provides an added level of security and can go a long way toward avoiding pricey repairs down the line.
Additionally, garages protect cars from UV radiation which can cause interior fading over time. By taking preventative steps to ensure your vehicle's longevity, you'll save on repair costs and extend its life significantly.
5. Keep your battery charged.
Keeping your car battery charged is vital to getting the most extended life possible. This is because batteries naturally discharge over time due to regular use and extreme temperatures (hot or cold).
It is crucial to check the terminals for signs of corrosion, as this can indicate that the battery needs to be recharged or replaced. Addressing any potential issues quickly is essential to ensure optimal performance from your battery over time.
6. Be observant.
As the owner and driver of your car, you know it better than anyone else. So always be on the lookout for anything off or unusual. If you encounter weird sounds or vibrations, don't hesitate to take your vehicle to an inspection. Prompt action regarding potential issues can prevent them from escalating into more significant problems.
7. Avoid driving too aggressively.
Driving too fast or taking corners at high speeds can strain your vehicle's parts, resulting in premature wear and tear. It's essential to be aware of your speed and driving style to minimize any potential damage or costly repair bills down the line. Taking it slow and steady is vital for preserving your car's performance and life expectancy.
8. Conduct DIY maintenance at times.
Maintaining your vehicle does not require extensive knowledge about cars. Instead, simple tasks such as checking and refilling your tires at a gas station every month can help keep your vehicle in good condition.
Additionally, familiarizing yourself with the fluid levels, such as power steering fluid, antifreeze, and wiper fluid can alert you when they need to be refilled by a professional. As a bonus, you can even learn to fill them yourself if you're adventurous.
9. Schedule regular maintenance.
Taking your car in for routine oil changes may be a low priority, but they're essential for avoiding costly damage down the road. Regular inspections and check-ups, including monitoring tire pressure, will help prolong the life of your vehicle and maximize its performance.
10. Always check the tires.
You should always inspect tire pressure regularly. Walking around your car and looking at the tires can help you spot if any appear lower than they should be. In addition, please take a moment to check each tire's treads to ensure they are not too worn.
The "Toonie Test" is an excellent way for anyone with no vehicle technical expertise to determine if new tires are needed. It's also essential to keep a tire pressure gauge in your car; this low-tech method allows you to measure the air inside each tire easily.
11. Maintain the cleanliness of your vehicle.
Maintaining a clean car is crucial for aesthetics and can benefit your vehicle's practicality. A clean car looks more pleasing to the eye and increases its resale value, but it can also help save money in the long run. Improved fuel efficiency and reduced maintenance costs are just some benefits of keeping your car clean regularly.
Keeping your car clean doesn't have to be a hassle. Dedicating a few hours every couple of weeks for a deep cleaning session will keep your car looking showroom new, while a quick once-over every other week will ensure it looks just as good all year round.
Get the Most Out of Your Car With These Tips
A regular maintenance schedule, proper tire care, and regular cleaning can go a long way in making sure your vehicle lasts longer. Additionally, following a checklist for routine checks and repairs can help you stay on top of potential issues before they become significant problems.
Always consult your vehicle's owner manual for specific maintenance recommendations and take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic for regular check-ups. Get the most out of your car with these tips!
