With car prices increasing, many South Africans are choosing to hold onto their cars for longer. The good news is you don’t need to be a mechanic to extend your car’s lifespan – just a few simple, consistent habits can go a long way.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to get the most out of your vehicle, saving you time, money, and stress in the long run.
1. Service your car regularly
Just like you’d go to the doctor for regular checks, your car needs routine inspections, too, and one of the best ways to maintain your car is by servicing it regularly. This lets you catch small problems before they turn into bigger (and more expensive) issues.
When you take your car for a service, mechanics check the car’s moving parts, like the engine and brakes, and the electrical system. They also look at your fluid levels – including engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid – to make sure it’s all topped up. If you’re unsure when it’s time to service your car, see your owner’s manual for guidance.
2. Keep it clean
Keeping your car clean isn’t just about making it look good – it helps protect it, too. Dirt and grime can damage the paintwork and lead to rust over time. When you wash your car, you’re removing harmful substances and protecting the bodywork.
If you want to go the extra mile, consider both washing and waxing your car once in a while. This protects against damage from UV rays, rain, and bird droppings. When you park your car outside, using a car cover can also help shield it from sun damage and scratches.
3. Check the level of fluids
Your car relies on various fluids to keep things running smoothly. These include engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and coolant. When these fluids get low or dirty, your car can start to experience problems like overheating or brake failure.
Checking fluid levels regularly is easy and should form part of your maintenance routine. If you’re not sure how to check fluid levels, your owner’s manual should have clear instructions. When you notice your fluids are low, change them or top them up as soon as possible.
4. Take care of your tyres
Your tyres are the only part of your car that touches the road, so you want to keep them in good shape. Tyres that are over or under-inflated wear out faster, use more fuel, and can be dangerous to drive on.
Check your tyre pressure at least once a month, and make sure they have enough tread. If your tyres are worn or damaged, it’s time to replace them. Also, rotating your tyres regularly (usually every six months or 8,000-10,000 kilometres) helps them wear evenly so they last longer.
5. Look after your brakes
Brakes are crucial for your safety, so it’s important to keep them in good working order. Over time, brake pads wear out from regular use. If you notice grinding or squeaking noises when braking, it means your brake pads need attention.
It’s also a good idea to check your brake fluid levels often. Low brake fluid can cause poor braking performance – something you definitely want to avoid. If you notice any issues with your brakes, get them looked at by a professional as soon as possible.
6. Drive smoothly
How you drive has a huge impact on the lifespan of your car. Aggressive driving, like accelerating quickly, speeding, and braking suddenly, puts strain on your car’s engine and other parts.
You can drive more smoothly by avoiding sudden stops or starts. Give yourself plenty of time to slow down for traffic or red lights. Not only will this improve your car’s lifespan, but it will also save you money on fuel and reduce wear and tear.
7. Keep an eye on your car’s electrical system
Your car’s electrical system powers everything from your headlights to the air conditioning. If there’s an issue with the battery, alternator, or wiring, this can lead to major problems. So, keeping an eye on your car’s electrical system can prevent breakdowns and costly repairs.
If your headlights are dimming or your car is struggling to start, it’s likely an electrical issue. Check the battery, especially if it’s a few years old, and replace it if necessary.
8. Follow your car’s owner’s manual
Your car’s owner’s manual is filled with useful information on how to care for your vehicle. It gives specific recommendations for things like maintenance schedules, fluid types, and how to handle issues like replacing the air filter or changing the timing belt.
Following the advice in your owner’s manual, you’ll keep your car in the best shape possible, as it helps you avoid overlooking important maintenance tasks.
The ultimate way to protect your car
With a little attention and effort, you can keep your car running smoothly and looking great for many years. Regular servicing, monitoring fluid levels, keeping it clean, and driving carefully are all simple ways in which you can extend the life of your car.
Despite all this, accidents and unexpected issues can still happen, which is why having the right car insurance is essential. Get a free online quote from Prime for customisable car insurance options that fit both your needs and budget.
Disclaimer
The article aims to provide South African motorists with tips on extending the lifespan of their cars. However, always do your independent research. Also, remember to check with your car insurance provider before you fix a problem with your car, as they often ask you to use their list of approved repairers.
Please get professional financial advice from a certified financial advisor to ensure you select the appropriate financial services product.
