Buying a new car can be expensive. Whether you are buying outright or taking the increasingly popular option to lease, cars can cost a lot of money. So, you’ll want to make sure it lasts as long as possible. Even if you are leasing, there is often the option to keep the car or buy it for a reduced price at the end of the contract, which may appeal if it’s a car that you love and are comfortable in. Much like people, the key to giving a car a long and happy lifespan is taking good care of it. Here are a few things that you can do to help your car last as long as you want it to.
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Get Problems Checked ASAP
Many of us are guilty of ignoring the check engine light, hoping it will go away on its own. Or contacting the car accident lawyers and not the garage after a small scrape. Much like your physical health, leaving a problem will often make it worse. Even if that check engine light does go away on its own, it was there for a reason, and it’s a good idea to investigate. If you have an accident, or your car doesn’t seem quite right, get it checked out as soon as you can.
Listen to it
If you drive the same car for a long time, you get used to the sounds it makes. They are usually the same day-to-day. Hearing something a little different is often the first warning sign that there is a problem brewing. If the running noise is different, it sounds different when the engine revs, the brakes make a noise or it splutters first thing in the morning, get it checked out.
Regular Services
In theory, you should be having your car serviced once a year. This is the chance to get all those little bits done. Small things like changing your oil, checking levels and unclogging spark plugs can help your car run better for longer and prevent any long-term issues from forming.
Clean it
If you want your car to last for a long time, you’ll also want it to look good. Take your time to get it cleaned regularly, especially in winter and not forgetting the interior. Clean spills immediately before they become hard to lift stains and get any chipped paintwork re-touched before it starts to rust or spread.
If possible, you should always keep it in a covered area such as a garage to ensure it stays out of direct sunlight and away from damaging tree sap. This will also mean your car is safe and help to keep your insurance costs down.
Get the Suspension Checked
Every time you knock a curb, go too quickly over a speed bump or corner too sharply you are damaging your tracking and your suspension. Over time driving with poor suspension can damage your tires and become much more expensive to repair.
Keeping your car in good shape doesn’t have to be difficult. Just get regular checks and keep on top of basic maintenance.
