TIPS to Increase the Lifespan of Your Vehicle

Here in Caricarz, we're certain you know how to drive your cars even if you haven't read the owner's manual.

And yes, you are already familiar with how to operate the signal lights, radio, air conditioner, and wipers but this section is not going to boast on the technical parts but more on how to maintain the health of your cars.

The owner's manual for your car does not cover these simple tricks. But don't worry, you're insured by us! It's not as difficult as you would think to maintain a car and doing it regularly will extend the life of your vehicle.

First and foremost, DRIVE CAREFULLY EVERY SINGLE DAY! If you practise safe driving every day, your vehicle will reward you with longer periods between repairs and save money in your pocket.

When you start your vehicle, accelerate gradually. The initial 10 to 20 minutes of operation are when the engine and drivetrain sustain the most wear.

It's NEVER a good idea to let the engine warm up in the driveway. Incomplete fuel combustion, soot build-up on cylinder walls, oil contamination, and finally damaged components occur from the engine not operating at its max temperature.

By shifting to neutral during red lights, you can reduce the stress on your engine and automatic transmission. Otherwise, even though the car is stopped, the engine is still pushing the vehicle.

On top of that, avoid travelling at fast speeds and accelerating quickly, particularly in extreme weather conditions. Such driving habits will increase the frequency of maintenance.

Bear in mind dear readers, be cautious when driving to extend the life of your tires. Do watch out for posted speed limits on the highway although sometimes we Malaysians tend to miss the sign but let’s try to be better, shall we?

In the meantime, avoid making quick twists, pauses, and starts. Be careful of obstacles in the road and potholes especially nowadays there’s plenty of road construction going on hence, you might need to pay extra attention on which routes you’ll be using.

Here’s one of the author’s favourites and frequently witnesses drivers running over the curb or scraping it as they navigate curves and corners. Although it’s likely to be SUVs or truck drivers, they are unaware that a four or more wheeled vehicle's rear wheels do not move in the same direction as the front wheels while turning a corner or negotiating a tight curve. Instead, the rear wheels' track is more closely aligned with the inside of the curve or bend.

A wise man once told me to never hold the extreme right or left position of your steering wheel for more than a few seconds. This could harm the power steering pump and who wants that innit?

Last but not least, plan and combine your brief road journeys. The first few minutes of driving are when your car experiences most of its damage and pollutant production. Running numerous errands at once, ideally during off-peak hours, will keep your engine happier for longer.

There you go! Several tips on how to increase the lifespan of your vehicle.

If you care for your car just like you care for your person, there’s a reward waiting for you. 

Stay tuned with Caricarz!

Photos: Credit to PINTEREST