If you're in the market for a new car, you know what a big investment it is. Like everything else, the price of new cars keep going up. Because of this, you want to make sure that your new car lasts you for as long as possible. Luckily, extending the life of your new car doesn't need to be difficult. Here are three strategies you can utilize to extend the life of the new car you're about to purchase.
Follow the Maintenance Schedule
When it comes to extending the life of your new car, the most important thing you can do is keep it properly maintained. If you're like most people, you have a busy schedule. Unfortunately, that busy schedule can make it easy to forget certain things, which means you need to prioritize your time. To keep your new car running smoothly, it's important that you put maintenance at the top of your priorities list. One way to do that is to follow the maintenance schedule provided by the manufacturer of the vehicle you purchase. Most manufactures provide a copy of the recommended maintenance schedule right in the back of the owners manual. Print that list out, and place it somewhere you'll see on a regular basis. This way, you'll know exactly when it's time to take care of maintenance issues.
Say Yes to the New Filters
When you go in for an oil change, you know that you're going to need a new oil filter. However, there are other filters in your car that you shouldn't neglect. These other filters are important to the performance of your new car. Each time you take your car in for routine maintenance, be sure to have the filters checked, including the air filter, and the cabin filter. If they're dirty, have them replaced immediately. Delaying their replacement could put your car at risk for performance issues.
Give Your Car Time to Adjust
When you start your car, don't just put it in gear and take off. Give your car time to adjust each time you start the engine. You might not realize this, but while the car is parked, the fluids are all settling down towards the bottom of the engine. When you start the car, those fluids need a few seconds to get back to where they belong, especially the oil. If you're taking off as soon as you start the engine, the oil hasn't had a chance to start lubricating the moving parts. Unfortunately, if you drive like that often enough, the lack of proper lubrication can lead to poor performance, and engine overheating.
Take care of your new car. Utilize the strategies provided here protect your investment.