Here are ten essential car care practices to ensure your vehicle's optimal performance and longevity:
Maintain Fluid Levels Regularly check essential fluids such as motor oil, power steering fluid, and coolant. Consult your owner's manual for guidance If low, book a services with your service centre.
Refer to the Owner's Manual Frequent references to your car's owner's manual provide invaluable insights into its various systems and maintenance requirements. Given the complexity of modern vehicles, relying on this resource is prudent.
Interpret Warning Lights Modern cars are equipped with intricate sensor systems and warning lights that convey vital information, from a missing gas cap to low tire pressure. Familiarize yourself with the meaning of each warning light and the steps to address them.
Monitor Tyre Pressure Maintaining correct tyre pressure is crucial for safe vehicle handling and preventing premature tire wear or blowouts. Tyres naturally lose air over time, so regular pressure checks are essential.
Pay Attention to Your Car's Operation Develop a keen sense of how your car operates when everything is functioning normally. This baseline understanding enables you to detect deviations, such as unusual vibrations, shudders, jerks, bumps, or hesitations, signalling potential issues.
Listen to Your Car Vehicles communicate audibly through various sounds. Familiarize yourself with the typical noises your car makes to identify any abnormal or concerning sounds that may indicate a problem.
Lighting Inspection Conduct monthly inspections of both exterior and interior lighting systems. Consult your owner's manual to gain a comprehensive understanding of all lighting functions in your vehicle, as some may activate under specific conditions.
Perform a Vehicle Walk-Around As a responsible driver, perform a weekly walk-around inspection of your vehicle. Check for body damage, assess the condition of wiper blades and tires, and test all locks, windows, and sunroofs (if applicable) for proper operation.
Maintain Vehicle Cleanliness Regularly washing and waxing your car not only enhances its appearance but also extends the life of its paint and helps prevent corrosion. Additionally, keep the interior free from debris, vacuum the floors, and clear leaves from vents. Your dealership will most likely offer products that will clean and protect the interior and exterior of your vehicle.
Please contact your dealership service centre for additional vehicle care and maintenance tips.