As supply chain issues continue to decrease the number of new vehicles available on the market, while increasing the prices of used vehicles, you might feel at a stand-still. Many drivers are keeping their current vehicles, and increasing their maintenance and cleaning routines to keep them operating at their best. We’ve researched car care tips, tricks, and cleaning advice to help drivers extend the lifespan of their vehicles.
Tip #1: Keep your vehicle clean
Your vehicle is consistently exposed to harsh outside elements. Whether you live in areas prone to cold or hot weather, the environment can negatively impact your vehicle if not maintained. Regular washing can remove dirt, salt, and other contaminants before they have an impact. Maintaining the interior of your vehicle can also help with resale value.
Tip #2: Fix damaged areas quickly
If you’ve been in an accident and your vehicle is still drivable, that doesn’t mean you should continue driving it. When you wait to repair the damage, either to the interior components or exterior, you risk substantially worsening the damage.
Tip #3: Stay on top of oil changes
Ignoring regular oil changes can lead to reduced vehicle efficiency, and eventually engine failure. Make sure to check your engine oil at every other gas fill-up, and get your oil changed after every 3,000 miles driven.
Tip #4: Change air filters regularly
Air filters’ primary function is to prevent dirt from reaching your vehicle’s engine. Regularly replacing your air filters will increase the lifespan of the engine. On your next oil change, ask your technician to check your air filters.
Tip #5: Park in a garage or in the shade
To avoid any UV sunlight and heat damage to your vehicle’s interior and paint, it’s best to park in a garage, or at least in the shade. Another option would be to use a car shade to help reduce any potential impact. Plus, your vehicle will stay cool on hot days!
Tip #6: Fix windshield chips as soon as you get them
Getting a crack in your windshield can be easy to ignore. Unless your eyesight is impaired by a larger crack, you don’t legally have to fix a windshield chip. Chips and cracks can impact the vehicle’s structural integrity, which leads to a less-safe vehicle. Plus, you can typically fix rock chips without replacing the entire windshield, saving you time and money.
Tip #7: Install urethane films to protect your vehicle’s paint
Urethane film is a popular product that can help reduce any impact from rock chips and other minor damages on your vehicle’s paint. We recommend that you get this film installed professionally.
Tip #8: Pay attention to your tires
It’s important to keep your tires inflated to their standard pressure. Under-inflated tires can cause stress and typically leads to tire failure. You also need to consistently rotate your tires, typically every 6,000 – 7,500 miles. Be sure to consistently check for uneven wear on your tires as well. Uneven wear on vehicle tires can indicate the need for vehicle realignment, shock or break replacement, internal tire damage, and more.
Tip #9: Preserve window weatherstripping and replace when necessary
Ignoring your vehicle’s window weatherstripping causes faulty rubber seals, leaving your interior exposed to the elements. Wipe a rubber or silicone protectant on the window weatherstripping when you wash your car to keep it in good condition. If your weatherstripping becomes faulty, make sure to repair or replace it.
Tip #10: Keep your vehicle’s leather clean
When you ignore the leather in your car, it leads to drying out and cracking. Make sure to wipe down your seats with a leather cleaner consistently. You can also apply a leather protectant to help resist stains and condition your leather.
