Make Your Vehicle Last in Hagerstown, MD

How to Prolong Your Vehicle’s Lifespan

If you’re like most people, you rely on your car every day for commuting and running errands. It can be frustrating when your car isn’t dependable and has mechanical and performance issues. Some problems occur because of normal wear and tear. However, you can spare yourself a lot of stress and avoid expensive repairs by taking good care of your car. Regular maintenance and service will keep the engine and other vital parts in good condition. That will increase the likelihood that your vehicle will last for many years and miles ahead.

Other than timely service, there are other steps you can take to make your car last longer. These tips include actions while you drive and conscientious preparation.

Watch the Fuel Levels

If you have a gasoline-powered vehicle, filling up at the pump is a regular task you need to pay attention to. When gas prices are high, filling up can strain your budget. However, do your best to keep the fuel levels from reaching empty. It may be tempting to drive as long as you can before stopping at the gas station. However, when you drive with a near-empty tank, there is considerable stress on the fuel pump. This diminishes its efficiency, which can cause it to fail faster than its normal lifespan. Instead of filling up just before the tank is bone-dry, fill up when the tank level is at a quarter full or even half full. This will reduce fuel pump stressors and help this part to function more effectively. You won’t have to repair or replace it nearly as often or as soon.

Stop Revving the Engine

Revving the engine may seem like a fun idea. Some drivers might even think this is healthy for the car. Others do this to show off the engine’s prowess. The fact is that revving strains the engine and accelerates wear and tear on important engine components. After you start the car, especially on a cold day, wait a few moments before pulling away.

Stop the Car Before You Shift Gears

The transmission of your vehicle plays a vital role. It shifts your care from one gear to another. In manual transmission, you do this yourself by using a gear shift. Automatic vehicles go from gear to gear by themselves. However, even in automatic cars, you take control of shifting from drive to park or from drive to reverse. Anytime you need to put the vehicle into park or reverse, bring the car to a complete stop first. Once you have stopped the vehicle, it is safe to move into park or reverse. If you try to perform these actions while the car is in motion, it can cause severe damage to the transmission.

Watch Out for Potholes and Speed Bumps

Your driving habits will go a long way in determining how long your car will last. Thanks to the vehicle’s suspension, you can enjoy a comfortable ride even on challenging terrain. However, potholes and speed bumps pose big problems for the suspension. If you drive over these obstacles too quickly, significant damage can occur. Damage to the suspension can hamper your car’s performance. This damage is also costly to fix. Instead of driving at high speeds over speed bumps, slow down.

As you approach a pothole, go around it if possible. In addition to suspension damage, your car can suffer damage to the tires and wheels if you drive too fast over potholes and speed bumps. Similarly, dips in the road, medians, and curbs can cause the same issues with your vehicle.

Use the Parking Brake on Hills

Anytime you park on a steep incline, use the parking brake. Don’t trust your vehicle to stay parked without using this tool. Also, not using the parking brake on hills can damage the transmission.

Find Out More Information at Hamilton Nissan

By following these suggestions, you can drive with confidence in knowing your vehicle has many more good years left.

With your goal to have a longer-lasting car, let the team at Hamilton Nissan in Hagerstown, MD, help. Our service team can handle your maintenance and repair needs. Plus, we can give you more suggestions on how your car can continue to run smoothly mile after mile. Come and see us today.