Learning how to stretch a dollar now includes proper car care as a tool in the car enthusiast’s arsenal. These are simple things that you can do on your own to protect your car and things that need a mechanic. Just like how Volkswagen dealerships in Albuquerque, NM, teach their customers, you, too, can make your car last longer.
Do not Modify your Car
Most car enthusiasts dream of adding their spin to their dream cars. They might think of adding a sportier suspension or a spoiler. Though these elements may make your vehicle stand out on the roads more, they can also harm other parts of the car, such as the chassis and subframes. Adding more power to the engine could also wear out the brakes quicker, as you might be tempted to push the car faster. Remember that some modifications are unreliable, decrease your car’s lifespan, and plummet the value of your vehicle.
Avoid Potholes and Other Irregularities in the Road
If deep enough, potholes can damage your suspension and exhaust. It can even tear tire treads or deflate them completely. In some instances, potholes and other road irregularities may scratch catalytic converters, causing holes and losing power. If not promptly attended to, these problems can lead to excessive maintenance or even be a threat to your safety.
Drive Smoothly
Every car enthusiast knows what their car’s mechanics can do. Being sensitive to the car’s abilities will keep the cost of fuel and repair bills down. Shifting and using the pedals, gearbox, and steering wheel smoothly and without force is critical. However, there isn’t anything wrong with pushing the pedal to the metal on long stretches of quiet roads once the oil is warm, especially since it helps clear the filters and valves.
Change the Oil Filter and Air Filter Regularly
There is a list of services that are covered during your car maintenance. However, changing out the filters is a cost-effective step that can keep your car running efficiently. Both jobs are simple, and because you’ll be able to do it more regularly than a mechanic, filter life can be extended. Refer to your car’s handbook on how to change the filters, and remember always to use authentic parts.
Adhere to your Service Schedule Religiously
Regular servicing is vital to keep your car running smoothly. Sometimes, car owners can be tempted to skip a servicing to save money, especially if the car still “feels” right. There are warning lights on the dashboard to tell you when it’s time for service. However, the best way to check how often your car should go in for servicing is to refer to the handbook. Checking for oil and fluid leaks, tire pressure and tread condition, brake wear and tear, excessive emissions, and responsiveness of steering wheel, gearbox, suspension, lights, and wipers, is necessary at every servicing.
Get your Car Rust-Proofed
Cars, especially vintage ones built in the 1990s or before, are vulnerable to metal corrosion. If you do see rust forming on your car, get your vehicle professionally resprayed. If your car is still luckily rust-free, have a mechanic apply a stone-deflecting film or a waxy substance into the chassis’s holes.
Though these steps may sound simple, any Volkswagen dealer in Albuquerque, NM, will be able to assure you of their effectiveness. By paying attention and acting promptly, you may be able to save yourself a ton of money in the long-run and have your car running for a reasonably long time. For more advice on keeping your car roadworthy for a long time, check out with a Fiesta Volkswagen dealer in Albuquerque, NM, today!
