Everyone wants a reliable car that runs efficiently. Well-maintained cars are more fun to drive, safer (which can reflect in your insurance payment!), and tend to get better gas mileage. Plus, if you drive your car a lot, you won’t have to worry about it breaking down as often.
You don’t need to be a licensed mechanic to keep your car in peak condition, and you certainly don’t need to spend a lot of money to maintain it.
With a few simple tips, you can keep your car running at its best and enjoy all the benefits it has to offer. Not sure where to get started? Let’s cover a few basics that anyone can do.
Have the Right Tools
You don’t need to know a lot about cars to keep yours in top condition. However, you do need to have the right equipment. That includes a few essential tools that every DIY mechanic should have in their arsenal. While you don’t need to buy a brand new toolset, you should invest in some of the following if you plan on regularly working on your vehicle:
- Diagnostic equipment
- A work light
- Socket wrench
- Ratchet extender
- Spark plug pliers
Having the right tools will boost your confidence and help you feel more equipped to handle basic maintenance and repair jobs. A mechanic is only as good as their tools, so make sure you’re making a smart investment and not settling for gear that won’t hold up.
Store it Properly
Every car experiences wear and tear depending on how often you drive it. However, your car will wear out faster if you leave it outside in all kinds of weather. By storing your car properly, you can extend its life, keep it looking like new, and ensure it runs properly. Whether you park it in a carport, garage, or parking pad, try to choose a place that’s covered and won’t let your car get hit with debris or pelted with snow and rain.
Know the Warning Signs
Understanding some basic signs that your car needs a check-up is important. There are some things that you should regularly take care of no matter what, including oil changes and tire rotations. However, there are certain indicators that there could be a bigger issue, including smells like:
- Rotten eggs
- Mustiness
- Sweet smells (like syrup)
- Gas
- Hot oil
- Burned shag carpet
If you smell any of these things while driving your car, it could mean everything from your engine leaking oil to your brakes not functioning properly. This isn’t an exhaustive list, of course. Any time you smell something out of the ordinary, don’t take it lightly. Catching these issues early can save you a lot of time, money, and stress.
Keeping your car in peak condition is easier than you might think. Make it a priority to care for your car, and it will run smoothly for years to come. Plus, you’ll enjoy greater fuel efficiency, fewer breakdowns, and a lot more fun on the road!
