
Owning a car allows you the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want. However, if you don’t take care of your car, pretty soon you’re drowning in repair bills and wasting time in the shop instead of on the road. Here’s what you need to do to keep your new car in good condition.
Purchase the Correct Parts
Repairs are unavoidable when you own a car; so many parts work together that some of them are bound to break eventually. When you do repair your vehicle, though, you must ensure that you choose the correct parts. Although most cars share a basic set of parts, each product is manufactured for a certain brand. For example, aftermarket compressor wheels designed for a Dodge minivan may not work for your Ford truck. Ensure you have the right brand before heading to the checkout line to prevent even more repairs.
Change Your Oil
The motor oil inside your car keeps your engine’s parts lubricated so that they can easily move past each other. When your oil runs out, these gears stick, causing friction and decreasing their speed. This puts too much stress on your engine and causes it to shut down. To avoid this scenario, change your oil regularly. Depending on your car’s age and model, its oil must be changed every 3,000 to 10,000 miles. Check your user’s manual or consult your local repair shop for the exact figure.
Inspect Your Tires
Your tires must be properly inflated and free of holes to keep you safe as you drive. Watch for obvious signs of deflating as well as a low pressure alert on your dashboard. Before reinflating your tires, check for nails and small holes, which mean that your wheels need replacing.
By following these tips, you keep your car on the road as much as possible.