There are different car care priorities: there are those that want to keep their car as long as possible with minimum cost or there are those who want to keep their car for as long as possible and keep it looking and running great. On the other side there are those who plan on only keeping their car for a few years and then turning it in for a newer, nicer car. Whichever side you fall on there are a few simple low cost maintenance requirements every car needs.
Some very basic car care requirements include changing the oil every 3,000 miles as well as aligning and balancing the tires. It’s a good idea to go ahead and do this every time you take your car in for an oil change. If you change your own oil it still would be worth it to take the car to the garage and have them check on the alignment and balance of your car. Rotating your tires every six months to a year is another simple, low cost maintenance requirement. Again, this is something you can have the garage do while they are changing the oil.
Washing your car is one very easy way to keep your car looking brand new. A good wash every two to four weeks is a good idea but if you want to keep your car looking its best a hand washing once a week is the way to go. If you must use a car wash find one that is brushless and relies on high pressure water to wash and rinse the car. Any animal droppings or bug residue should be removed right away as they can damage the finish of the car. A good waxing is recommended every six months to a year depending on the product you are using. A nice wax sealant on the car helps protect the paint and finish of the car.
Regular tune-ups to the car should be made based on the manufacturer’s recommendation. In the owner’s manual of your car you can find a list of all necessary tune-ups and when they are recommended. These general tune-ups will help maintain the engine, transmission and other critical components of your car. If you notice any irregularities in the driving of your car take it to the garage as soon as possible. Any problems should be fixed as soon as they occur otherwise it can cost a lot in the end.
Preparing your car for the winter (assuming you live where it snows) is a great way to keep it running smoothly and also looking its best. Whether you are planning on keeping the car until it dies or are planning on trading it in in three years winterizing your car will save you a lot of headache. The first recommendation in preparing your car for winter is to take it to a mechanic and have them check out the following: battery, antifreeze level, thermostat, heater, brakes and defroster. Also check to make sure your tires have adequate tread; if the tread is getting low it’s best to go ahead and replace the tires. If you live in an area that encounters extreme winter driving conditions consider replacing your current tires with snow tires. The tread on snow tires provides better traction on icy roads. Replace your windshield wiper fluid with one that is made especially to spray in the freezing conditions. Also, replace your current wiper blades with ones that are made to cut through snow and ice. To prevent rust on the undercarriage of your car from all the road salt rinse it off every once in a while and if you get a chance give your car a good wash and a fresh coat of wax. These will go a long way in prevention corrosion to your vehicle.
For most people their car is one of their most expensive possessions and keeping it running smoothly and looking its best is very important. These tips are designed to help car owners keep their cars in top shape and if they plan on keeping them until they die these tips will help keep the car looking like new. The styles may change over the years, but if the outside of your car is still shiny and rust or fade free it will look as good as those new ones on the road.