How to Make Your Car Live Longer

By: Kris LeSueur   |   30 May 2019

Did you know how you drive or treat your car on a daily basis can make all the difference when it comes to its life span? In fact, if you do any of the following bad driving habits, you could be severely damaging your vehicle, and shortening its life.

Driving on Empty

You may think you are saving time and money by waiting until the fuel tank low gas indicator light comes on to refill it, but in fact, the opposite is true. Most car manufacturers and mechanics recommend driving your vehicle on at least a quarter tank of gas.

Why? Well, when your tank is low, your car is pulling the gas from the bottom of the tank where the sediment from the gas has settled. This greatly increases the amount of sediment that gets transferred to your fuel line and filter. This can cause clogged lines, a dirty filter and engine trouble.

Slamming on the Brakes and Rapidly Accelerating

Are you the type of driver that stops suddenly at red lights, stop signs, and behind cars?

If you have a heavy foot and are slamming on the brakes or acceleration, not only are you putting yourself at a higher risk of collision, you are also causing a lot of unnecessary strain on your vehicle. Besides wearing out your brake pads and stressing your engine, you are also shortening the lifespan of your rotors and using a lot more on fuel than you need to.

To break this habit, practice using light touches for acceleration and deceleration. If you step too much on the pedals, you’ll experience that jerking effect, most commonly associated with new drivers.

Resting Hand on Shifter

If you drive a manual transmission, then you may have developed the bad habit of resting your hand on the shifter while driving. The added weight on the shifter puts pressure on the transmission’s bushings and synchronizers.

Shifting Gears Before a Complete Stop

Many times, when people are parallel parking, they shift from drive to reverse and vice versa without waiting for the car to come to a complete stop. This bad habit can cause irreversible damage to your drivetrain.

Ignoring Warning Lights and Other Signs

Pay attention to any strange or unusual sounds and sensations when driving your vehicle. Things like rattling, squeaking, and shaking can indicate worn out parts or something even more serious. Don’t wait to find out. It’s best to take your car to a mechanic for an inspection so you can catch the problem early on.

Using the Wrong Fuel

Many drivers have no idea which fuel type they should use. Some assume that the higher priced gasoline is better for their vehicle, while others assume there is no difference and go for the cheapest option instead.

The answer is very simple: consult your owner’s manual.

Using the wrong octane rating can do damage to your engine.

Not Maintaining Fluid Levels and Other Car Maintenance

As a driver, you should know how to check and change the oil and other fluids, in addition to taking care of your tires and other important car maintenance.

If you are a new driver, take a driving course early so you don’t develop any of these bad habits. For seasoned drivers, breaking these habits can be difficult. Try to catch yourself before you make any of these common driver mistakes.

If you have some of the above mentioned bad driving habits and notice your car is acting oddly, take it to our service department for an inspection! To schedule an appointment, click here!

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