When you get behind the wheel of your new car, it can seem like there’s nothing wrong with the world. The last thing you’re probably thinking about is how to ensure that your new car stays in great condition for a long time. However, paying attention to the four practices below will help to significantly extend the overall lifespan of your new vehicle.
1- Schedule Regular Maintenance
One of the most crucial parts of any vehicle’s lifespan is how much maintenance it receives. Vehicles that undergo regularly scheduled maintenance will last much longer than vehicles that don’t. This maintenance will help to ensure that fluids get changed, tires get aired up, and so forth. During your maintenance, you can also rely on your mechanic to let you know when small issues crop up, so they can be addressed before they cause more harm to your vehicle.
2- Have It Professional Detailed
Apart from mechanical maintenance, professional detailing is another great investment to help ensure the longevity of your new ride. When the surfaces of your vehicle are properly cared for, they’re much less likely to wear out. For example, if you have leather seats, having them conditioned on a regular basis will help to keep the leather adequately moisturized so it will last for decades. Professional detailing will also help subconsciously to keep your vehicle in good condition. When your vehicle is cleaned regularly, you’re going to be more prompt with addressing issues than if you don’t care for your car’s interior.
3- Put Only OEM Parts on Your Vehicle
It’s not uncommon for vehicle parts to fail from time to time. While a vehicle may last for half a century or more, its components tend to need replacing more often. Whenever you experience a problem with your vehicle, you’ll likely be given the option of installing OEM parts or aftermarket parts. While aftermarket parts do tend to have a cheaper price tag, they’re of inferior quality as compared to OEM parts. OEM stands for original equipment manufacturer and are parts that come directly from your vehicle’s manufacturer. This way, you know the parts that are installed on your vehicle are specifically designed for it.
4- Be Mindful of Harsh Weather Conditions
Harsh weather conditions can take a big toll on your vehicle. Extreme temperatures, blasting sunlight, and salty conditions can all cause premature wear and tear on your vehicle. While it’s hard to avoid your car coming into contact with some of these unfavorable weather conditions, you should do your best to combat them. Try to store your vehicle in a location that is free from direct sunlight, such as a garage or carport. Additionally, hit up the carwash or hose off your vehicle after driving on salty roadways to help prevent unwanted rust from occurring.
It’s imperative to think of your new vehicle as an investment. You want to run it for as long as possible. By utilizing the four investment tips that we went over above, you’ll be well on the way to extending your vehicle’s overall lifespan.