How to extend the life of your car

Driving a dirty vehicle reduces its life. Photo source Wallace Silva, Pexels.com

A car is one of the most expensive things you will buy in your life, and that is one of the reasons why they are never bought for a few years, but for a much longer period (there is another option, which is to rent a vehicle at a rent a car agency). As anyone who has bought a used car knows, the condition of two identical models can differ significantly after a certain number of kilometers have been driven. They can come from the same batch from the same factory, be the same age, have similar mileage, and one of them looks and moves like new, while the other is worn out, and in really bad shape.

So let's see what can be done to keep your car in perfect condition for as long as possible.

Follow the service schedule

Every car has unique parts and fluids that are essentially consumables and require periodic replacement. But even parts that are designed to last a "lifetime", require regular checks and adjustments. The vehicle manufacturers advises a certain service schedule for their cars, taking into account the necessary mechanical interventions, so that it works reliably and efficiently for as long as possible. Not servicing your car properly - either by skipping or delaying service - is a sure way to speed up its deterioration.

Do your own checks

Even a properly serviced car can develop problems between two services. If you want to increase your chances of spotting any problems when they arise, regularly perform simple basic checks: check oil levels, battery condition, and tire pressure/condition. If something is wrong, see the next tip.

Don't let problems linger

The mechanical parts of a car are often interconnected, which means that if one problem is not solved, others can arise. If you hear, feel or suspect something is wrong, or your own checks show something out of the ordinary, don't wait for the next service and potentially a bigger list of repairs - head to the service, and get it checked out, and do it ASAP.

Don't skimp on vehicle maintenance

Car manufacturers invest large in designing and testing vehicles parts to ensure that they not only fit and function properly, but are also reliable and durable. Although used parts are cheaper, they can be more difficult to install, less efficient, less durable, and can even cause additional problems. Having it serviced by a factory dealer – or, if that's not possible, insisting on genuine quality parts – means your car will still meet its original specification after years of use, and you'll be driving as it should be.

Photo source Artem Podrez, Pexels.com

Keep your vehicle clean

Prolonged exposure to the outside environment can seriously damage the condition of your car. 

Dirt, mud, and dust deposits can promote corrosion if they accumulate in hidden places. 

Dust, tree sap, and bird droppings can turn shiny paint into a blotchy, peeling surface.

Dirt can also damage the interior, floors, and seats fabrics.

So, don't let your car get filthy before you wash it, because that actually means you've opened the door to faster deterioration. Wash it regularly, or better yet, invest in polishing wax, which will add another barrier to your car's color, i.e. protection between two washes.

Do not park your vehicle in the sun

Strong UV radiation at the summer can makes car's color to fade, and damages the plastic and delicate interior trim. If you want to avoid the harmful long-term effects of the sun, keep your car in the shade whenever you can. And if you have access to a garage, carport or covered parking space, use it.

Treat your car with care

How well your car will last largely depends on how you treat it. An engine that is driven slowly until it warms up will last longer than one that is forced immediately after starting. The same applies to a manual transmission that is used carefully and does not "break" through the gears. If you often drive over rough roads and potholes, suspension and bodywork will wear and loosen faster than normal driving.

Bottom line

So, once again to underline maybe the most important thing – if you treat your car carefully, repair it regularly, and maintain it well, you will drive it longer and with better quality. So, pay attention to your vehicle.