Owning a vehicle is a significant investment, and maximising its lifespan can save you considerable money and hassle in the long run. Your driving habits play a crucial role in determining how long your vehicle lasts and how well it performs. By understanding the dos and don’ts of driving, you can ensure that your vehicle remains in top condition for as long as possible.

Dos

Regular Maintenance

• Adhere to Maintenance Schedules: Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes, filter replacements, and other services.
• Check Fluid Levels: Regularly check and top up essential fluids like engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid to keep your vehicle running smoothly.
• Monitor Tyre Pressure: Properly inflated tyres reduce wear and improve fuel efficiency. Check tyre pressure monthly and before long trips.

Smooth Driving

• Accelerate Gently: Avoid rapid acceleration. Gentle acceleration reduces strain on the engine and transmission, leading to less wear and tear.
• Brake Smoothly: Sudden braking wears down brake pads and rotors quickly. Anticipate stops and decelerate gradually.
• Steady Speed: Maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Constant speed changes can put extra stress on the engine and other components.

Warm Up the Engine

• Cold Starts: Allow your engine to warm up for a minute or two before driving, especially in cold weather. This ensures proper lubrication and reduces engine wear.

Lighten the Load

• Avoid Overloading: Carrying excess weight puts additional stress on the suspension, brakes, and drivetrain. Remove unnecessary items from your vehicle to lighten the load.

Use Quality Fuel and Parts

Premium Fuel: Use the recommended grade of fuel for your vehicle. High-quality fuel can improve performance and efficiency.
Original Parts: Use original equipment manufacturer parts for repairs and replacements to ensure compatibility and reliability.

Don’ts

Neglect Maintenance

• Skipping Services: Ignoring scheduled maintenance can lead to severe problems and costly repairs. Always adhere to the maintenance schedule.
• Ignoring Warning Lights: Dashboard warning lights indicate potential issues. Address them promptly to prevent further damage.

Harsh Driving

• Rapid Acceleration and Braking: Sudden starts and stops increase wear on the engine, transmission, and brakes. Drive smoothly to extend vehicle life.
• Over-Revving the Engine: Avoid pushing the engine to its redline. High RPMs generate excessive heat and stress, leading to premature wear.

Short Trips

Frequent Short Drives: Short trips prevent the engine from reaching optimal operating temperature, causing increased wear and fuel consumption. Combine errands to minimise short trips.

Ignoring Tyre Health

• Worn-Out Tires: Driving on worn or unevenly worn tires compromises safety and handling. Rotate and replace tires as needed to ensure even wear.

Heavy Loads and Towing

• Exceeding Towing Capacity: Towing beyond your vehicle’s capacity can damage the engine, transmission, and suspension. Always adhere to manufacturer guidelines.

By adopting good driving habits and avoiding detrimental practices, you can significantly extend the life of your vehicle. Regular maintenance, gentle driving, and mindful practices go a long way in ensuring your car remains reliable and performs at its best. Remember, taking care of your vehicle not only saves you money but also enhances safety and driving enjoyment.