Buying a car is a massive investment, so it makes perfect sense to want to ensure that it manages to last a long time. Unfortunately, most people either drop their good maintenance habits after a few weeks or they just don’t really understand how to take good care of their vehicle. So in this post, we’ll be taking a look at 10 ways to ensure that your car manages to last for a long time.

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1. Learn to drive defensively

Driving defensively saves both lives and your car. It’s all about watching out for reckless drivers and being more aware of your surroundings when you’re out on the road.

2. Take good care of your car’s tires

Your car’s tires are one of the most important components to look after. If the tires have too much or too little air then it can cause your vehicle to behave in strange ways. It’s the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, so it’s a good idea to maintain it and ensure that it’s not damaged. You also need to consider using the right tires for the right road conditions so that you don’t damage them.

3. Cover it when it’s not in use

Covering your vehicle ensures that it protects the coat of paint and keeps it looking and feeling fresh. It also protects it from any bird droppings, theft or adverse weather conditions that could damage your car. Make sure you keep your car in a garage if possible so that it’s protected from any potential threats.

4. Clear your car on a regular basis

It’s important to clean your car every few weeks to keep it looking fantastic and to scrub off any dirt or stains. Polishing your vehicle can help it maintain a nice sheen as well.

5. Don’t overload your vehicle with stuff

An overloaded vehicle is a heavy vehicle. This puts more pressure on the tires and suspension which can hasten the wear and tear. The vehicle might also behave a little differently which can be dangerous when steering or braking since your response will be much slower. Mechanical failures can be expensive, so it’s best not to put extra stress on your vehicle if you can avoid it.

6. Use your car on a regular basis

Much like any mechanical machine, it’s important to use it on a regular basis so that it doesn’t seize up and require repairs before you use it again. Make sure you take your car out for a drive every week if you’re not using it. Even if you’re just going around a few local roads, it’s important to ensure that your car continues functioning correctly.

7. Take your car to a mechanic now and then

You should visit a local mechanic every now and then to get your vehicle checked. In most cases, checking your vehicle every 6 months will help to sort out any potential issues before they become a problem. However, you should also phone your mechanic any time you notice something strange about your car, such as weird noises or handling issues. You might also want to contact specialist mechanics such as a Subaru Outback repair service to ensure you’re getting the best service possible for your make or brand of vehicle. While most mechanics specialise in all vehicles and models, working with a specialist is never a bad idea.

8. Keep the battery maintained

Keep the battery charged and make sure you maintain it like any other part in your vehicle. Ideally, you should change the car battery every four to five years to ensure it’s holding its charge. The last thing you want is a dead battery mid-journey. You can clean the battery to ensure that no dirt and debris get into the cells and you can also top up the electrolyte levels with distilled water.

9. Don’t run low on fuel

Sediment collects at the bottom of your fuel tank. This occurs naturally and isn’t something you can really change. However, if you’re constantly low on fuel, this sediment could end up clogging your vehicle. Make sure you’re always topped up on fuel and try not to run too low.

10. Pay more attention when buying your car
There are lots of things to pay attention to when buying a car, especially if it’s second-hand. You could learn about pre-existing issues that you should pay attention to, and you should learn more about your vehicle by reading the manual. This will help you learn more about maintenance tips and troubleshooting specific problems.

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