Whether you have a brand-new car or have owned your car for a while, one of the most important tips to extend its lifespan is to remain vigilant.
So what are some of the most common ways you accidentally shorten your car lifespan? Keep reading for several instances that you need to be aware of.
Car Lifespan: Things to Avoid
If you’re not careful, you could accidentally shorten your car’s lifespan without even realizing it. Here are a few things that could be harming your car:
Neglecting Regular Car Maintenance
Your car is a machine that is made up of many different working parts. Over time, these parts will wear down and eventually need to be replaced. Regular car maintenance will keep your car in good working condition and can extend car longevity.
Your car’s engine needs clean oil to function properly and to protect the engine from wear and tear. If you neglect to change your oil, you are effectively shortening your car’s lifespan.
Other maintenance tasks, such as checking and changing your car’s fluids, tune-ups, and tire rotations, are also important in extending your car’s lifespan. It’s also during these times you can check if there are other repairs such as paintless dent repair or car rear light replacements.
By neglecting these regular maintenance tasks, you are increasing the likelihood that your car will experience major problems down the road.
Driving Too Aggressively
Hard starts and stops and aggressive acceleration put unnecessary stress on the engine and other components. This can lead to premature wear and tear and in some cases, failure.
If you want your car to last as long as possible and avoid car repair, it’s best to drive calmly and avoid putting too much strain on the engine and other parts.
Parking in Hot or Cold Weather
If you live in an area with extremely hot or cold weather, you might want to consider parking your car in a garage or covered parking spot.
In the winter, the cold can cause the oil to thicken and make it difficult for the engine to turn over. In the summer, the heat can cause the fluids to evaporate and the rubber to deteriorate.
Carrying Too Much Weight
Weight puts strain on all of the car’s systems, from the tires to the engine, and can lead to parts wearing out prematurely.
Next time you’re loading up the trunk, be mindful of how much weight you’re adding and try to keep it to a minimum. Your car will thank you for lasting longer.
Not Washing Your Car Regularly
If you’re not washing your car regularly, you could be accidentally shortening your car’s lifespan. Without a regular wash, dirt and grime will build up on your car’s exterior and eventually start to cause rust and other damage.
In addition, your car’s paint will start to fade and discolor from all the built-up dirt. Not washing your car also means that your car’s interior will become filled with dust and debris, which can eventually lead to wear and tear.
Extending Your Car’s Lifespan
It’s important to be mindful of how you treat your car to avoid putting unnecessary wear and tear on the vehicle. If you are accidentally shortening the lifespan of your car, be sure to take better care of it to prolong its life!
Be sure to check out our auto blog for more information about car lifespan, maintenance, and care.