Cars are expensive to keep, but for most of the population, they’re essential to our way of life. Whether it’s the freedom to travel wherever you wish whenever you need to, or simply the ability to get to work on time, the benefits of owning your own vehicle often outweigh the negatives. If you’re someone who dreads the yearly servicing bill though, here are just a few ways for you to keep up the regular maintenance of your car without breaking the bank.
Keep an eye on your windscreen wipers
Allowing a garage to change your wipers can often cost four times the amount it takes to maintain them yourself. If you regularly clean the wipers they’ll last much longer, but when it’s time to change them, head down to your local auto store and ask the sales assistants for advice. They’ll not only tell you which ones will fit your vehicle but even fit them for you free of charge depending on where you go.
Check your tires regularly
If your tire pressure is low, it can lead to irreversible, expensive damage. If you want to avoid having to pay for a whole new set of tires on your next service, pick up a low-cost pressure gauge, or head to a gas station where you can use theirs for pennies. The correct pressure will be different for each kind of tire, but make sure you check this at least once a month. If you’re unsure of how to do this or what your pressure should be, click here for a useful guide. Aside from the pressure, you should also check them for cuts and bulges which could render them dangerous.
Flush out the toxins
In the same way we undergo health kicks to flush out toxins, you can take the same approach with your car for very little money, preventing costly future damage. First, consider your car’s radiator and cooling system; over time it will build up layers of residue that can clog the system, causing the car to overheat, so be sure to perform a radiator flush every couple of years. Secondly, change the fuel filters yourself every 24,000 miles; these keep dirt and rust out of your fuel, so changing them regularly could save you hundreds in engine repairs. Thirdly, changing the air filter prevents dirt from entering the car’s engine; a dirty one can affect acceleration, rendering your car less efficient.
Ask the experts
Finally, don’t be afraid to turn to the experts should you encounter a problem with your car; it could be a simple maintenance tip that you need, rather than a trip to the garage. You could consult forums or the blogs of car experts, conversations on manufacturer’s websites, or key industry websites. For example, AutoTrader.co.za has an “Ask AutoTrader” section, where customers and sellers alike can ask questions to the wider community. You might find a hidden gem of advice!
Do you have any more car maintenance tips?
