It’s enough trouble to shop and buy a car. Once you sign on the dotted line you can relax, but not just yet. You want to keep your car in the best shape possible and with the gas prices increasing like crazy; you want to get the best bang for your buck. But how do you do that? Here are a few things to keep in mind to keep your car running at its best.
Always keep the fluids filled. Make sure that at any given time your car’s oil, coolant, brake, transmission and windshield wiper fluids are where they should be. Most Lube services will do this for free in between oil changes. You can also request they double check that all hoses are in tact and leak free.
Check your windshield and windows for chips and cracks. Being unaware of any glass damage can give you a headache later. What looked like a small crack can turn into a spider crack all the way across your windshield before you know it. Getting a professional to repair and damages can save you a lot of money in the long run. If you park on the street, consider a car cover to protect from scratches and weather damage.
It’s always a good idea to check online, in the newspaper, or on the radio where construction is taking place and where you can expect a slow commute. Not only do you need to slow down to avoid injuring any workers, there are often uncomfortable dips and holes that can wreak havoc on your shocks and possibly more importantly, fines are often higher in construction zones so save some money and slow down.
Know what kind of weather to expect. Check you tires, lights and wipers before heading out. Wipers that don’t work properly or insufficiently can put you in a compromising and dangerous position and can turn a normally safe drive to a dangerous endeavor.
Always buckle up. If not for safety, do it to save a buck or two. In most states, buckling up is the law now.
Keep cool, and I don’t mean turn on the A/C. Keeping a check on your temper is always a good idea. It’s no secret that holiday shopping, screaming kids and hot summer weather can cause stress and frustration. Driving when feeling any extreme emotion (anger, sadness, extreme happiness) can cause you to be distracted and may lead to a fender bender or worse. Always try to avoid sending off rude gestures to the jerk that cut you off and receive rude gestures at an “adult” level.
Don’t drink and drive. Period. Also, don’t drive when you are extremely tired. Nodding off at the wheel can be deadly. Pull over if you have to.
Don't just take your car's gauges as an opinion, but as a rule. If your temperature gauge is climbing or higher than normal, your car could be on its way to overheating. Try switching on your heater and slowing down to cool down the engine. Never try to solve the issue yourself if you don't know what you're doing. Never open the radiator's cap when the engine is warm. A roadside assistance service comes in handy in these situations.
