Buying a car can be one of the most expensive purchases people make in their lifetime. And due to the high price tag, you should know how to extend the life of your vehicle for as long as possible. Learning the techniques and maintenance necessary to keep your vehicle running will not only make it last longer, but also improve the quality of your ride and your ability to drive.
Strange Noises
You need to pay attention to the sounds your car makes while driving on the road because they can indicate serious problems. When you first start your car and drive at low speeds, your vehicle may make a sustained squealing type of noise as you accelerate. This noise may get drowned out when traveling at higher speeds, but this sound can be a sign of problems with your driveshaft.
Sounds When Braking
Some of the most common sounds you will hear are noises when you apply the brakes. It could be a low, metallic grinding sound or a high-pitched squeal. Either way, it could indicate that either your rotors, calipers, or brake pads are worn down.
Tires
Your tires sustain a lot of wear and tear from the hundreds or possibly thousands of miles you put them through. And with that constant stress comes many problems, including worn-out treads. The shallower your tread depth, the harder it is for your vehicle to keep its grip on the road. The lack of grip will also strain the engine, forcing it to work harder to compensate for the reduced traction.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
It can be tempting to try and use up your tires until the eleventh hour. Tires can be costly, and buying an entirely new set of four can be prohibitively expensive. But there are many benefits to buying new tires, and they will keep you safe on the road and eliminate unnecessary strain on your engine.
Fluid Levels
There are many fluids your vehicle needs to keep running, whether it’s engine coolant, motor oil, transmission fluid, or brake fluid. They all play a role in the regulation of your car. Your engine coolant keeps the engine from overheating, brake fluid gives you the ability to stop your vehicle with the push of a pedal, and motor oil maintains the lubrication of your engine.
Look for the Signs
Some fluids are easier to keep track of than others. You can see many of their fluid levels when inspecting the engine. However, you can’t spot others quite as easily. Look for dried puddles of fluid around your car after you park your vehicle.
Cascading Problems
What you need to know about making your car last longer is that problems compound on each other. Worn-out tires affect the engine, faulty brake pads destroy calipers, and a lack of brake fluid impacts your ability to handle your car. Be on the lookout for some critical parts you may need to replace before they turn into expensive repairs or cause dangerous driving conditions.
Van Rundell is a writer and author who specializes in transportation, travel, guidance, health & fitness. With over 10 years of experience in the industry as a driver and an entrepreneur, he has seen it all. His tone is professional but friendly with a dash of humor thrown in for good measure. In past, he has been advising, educating and writing about transport for the public and professionals alike.
A qualified fitness instructor with over 5 years’ experience as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor, Van brings his deep knowledge of health and exercise science to his articles on health & fitness.
