For the first month or so after getting a shiny new car, you will probably treat it like a new toy – keeping it clean and tidy and making sure it looks pristine. After a while, however, the novelty usually wears off, and you may start to neglect it.
Your car is there to get you from A to B in one piece, so regardless of its age, you should make every effort to keep it running smoothly and safely.
Here are 4 tips to help you take better care of your car.
Check your tires
Car tires help keep your car fixed firmly to the road and are particularly important during wet or snowy conditions. That’s why it’s necessary to check your tire treads regularly and make sure they are functioning as they should be.
Depending on where you live it can be a criminal offense to drive with worn tires, so don’t take any chances. If they are worn, visit a garage as soon as possible and have them replaced.
Take an extended warranty
Many companies offer extended warranties on vehicles regardless of age or mileage, so if you think your car may need a fair bit of work in the next few years, an extended warranty could be worthwhile.
CarShield plans, for example, cover a host of services for different vehicles and have a range of products suitable for most budgets, so if it’s something you’ve been considering, look further into it and find a plan that suits you.
An extended warranty can help to take the stress out of owning an older vehicle and could also work out far more cost-effective in the long run.
Keep your lights and windscreen clean
Cleaning your car might not be the most glamorous of jobs, but it’s something you should endeavor to do at least once every month or so. Your lights, in particular, need to be kept in good condition and free of debris as you need to be able to see where you are going and be visible to other drivers.
Similarly, your front and rear windshields must be clear of dirt and debris at all times, so remove anything which could restrict your view and make sure you replenish your windscreen wash when needed. It should only take minutes to do these things, but they will make a big difference to your safety and the safety of other road users.
Have it serviced
Having your car professionally serviced once a year is always a good idea. They typically work to a detailed checklist and ensure that every element of your car is working as it should. They will also check your oil levels, tire pressure, etc., and either remedy any issues or give you a quote to have them fixed or replaced.
You may be tempted not to bother with an annual service, but it will help keep your car in good shape and could save you a lot of money in the long run.