Your car is not just a luxury. It gets you where you need to go. It’s your trusted steed when you are headed to work, out for recreation, or you have an emergency. It’s also an investment. If you are going to lay out the money for your own vehicle, you want to make sure it will last. Learn how you can improve the performance of your car. You’ll get more bang for your buck.
Splurge on the Tires
You might cringe at the cost of tires, but they are a necessity. Experts advise automobile owners to get a new set anywhere between four and five years. This time frame depends on how far you drive on a daily basis and the conditions you drive in. Think of 60,000 miles as the magic number when you are considering a tire change. If you travel a great deal for work or pleasure, you may be investing in new tires more often. You can extend the life of your tires by keeping your air pressure at ideal levels at all times. Pay attention in the winter. This is when tire pressure tends to drop. If you pick up a nail or other sharp object, take it to your auto shop for a patch. A damaged tire may need to be replaced sooner than the others. Rotating your tires every 5,000 miles or so can also ensure the tread on your tires wears evenly.
It’s All About Lubrication
Oil is the essential fluid that lubricates your engine, keeping it running smoothly. You have a say in what type of oil you get when it is time for an oil change. Be willing to pay more for synthetic oil. It is of better quality than conventional oil. It helps your engine to perform better and last longer.
Replace Your Spark Plugs
Spark plugs send out voltage to fire up your engine when you turn the key. If they are not in good shape, you could have misfired. This can lead to overheating. Older plugs will use more voltage when you’re trying to crank the engine in the winter. Talk to your auto technician to evaluate your plugs. In some cases, they may just need to be cleaned. They are typically changed every 30,000 miles. If you have a used vehicle, you will have no way of knowing the last time your plugs were changed. A new set could breathe new life into your car.
Swap Your Battery
Car batteries are not built to last forever. You can expect to get three good years out of a new vehicle. Do not wait until you run into trouble. A dead battery is the last thing you want when you have to get someplace important. If you have a new car, it’s easier to keep track of when it is time for your new battery. If your car is older, have your auto technician check your battery to determine if it needs to be updated.
Protect Your Car from Sun Damage
People protect their skin from the sun’s rays. You should ward off sun damage for your vehicle as well. Intense heat on hot summer days can fade or crack your paint job. It can also dry out your dashboard, upholstery, and steering wheel. Anything electronic inside a hot car can also be damaged, such as cellphones or laptops. Carbon window tint is an efficient safeguard against sun damage inside your car. Consider buying a sunshade that can be placed in your front windshield throughout the year on sunny days. You can also park in a parking garage, your personal garage, or in the shade when the sun is beating on your car.
Improving your car’s performance is money well spent. It can help you to enjoy your vehicle for years to come. You’ll also cut back on your repair bills when you invest in regular maintenance. Set up a schedule with your trusted mechanic for routine visits. Ask about improvements when you stop in. New innovations could make a world of difference in how efficiently your car runs. You’ll also have more resale value when you are ready to drive something new into your garage.