When you make a big investment, it’s always a good idea to do whatever you can to extend the life of that investment. Whether it’s an expensive camera, a new home, or a computer, you want to do what you can to keep it working well for as long as possible. Your car is no exception! Some simple repairs will give you more years of service. Consider these five upgrades.
Suspension Repairs
The proper distribution of weight in your car is essential for safe operation and appropriate wear to various components. Replacing old shocks, struts, springs, bearings, and other parts as recommended by a qualified mechanic will improve the vehicle’s handling, increase safety, and extend the life of your tires. Getting your car regular checkups can help you catch any potential problems.
Improved Tires
New tires don’t just look good, they improve safety and extend the life of your car. A new set of Nissan tires will reduce the wear on your brakes and suspension, extending their life while also keeping your vehicle safely in its lane regardless of snow, ice, or rain. Replace your tires as the tread things or at any point where you see excess wear.
Temperature Management
A hot or cold engine is not a happy engine. Many different issues can lead to a malfunction of the cooling system, but the outcome is the same: an overheated engine doesn’t last as long and may fail unexpectedly. Address any issues with your radiator, water pump, or thermostat as soon as you detect them.
Leak Repairs
The only fluid you should ever see under your car is the water that drips from your air conditioner compressor. If you see anything other than those clean puddles, you need to check further. Any red, green, or brown drips could be a sign of a serious problem in the making. The sooner you address them, the longer your engine and transmission will last. Give your car a check, especially after long drives.
Fresh Filters
This isn’t so much about repairs as it is about maintenance, but certain filters are replaced infrequently enough to be forgotten. Your oil filter should be replaced every time the oil is changed, but other filters last longer. Your air filter is key to efficient ignition. If it’s full of dirt and insects, your MPG will drop. The fuel filter will also need periodic replacement to maximize fuel economy and extend engine life. When you buy your car or whenever you have a moment, make a schedule of times to check and replace your filters. If you need to, put it in your phone or digital calendar so you won’t forget.
The biggest mistake some drivers make is to buy a car and immediately begin neglecting it. It’s a purchase that requires careful maintenance on and off the road. Timely repairs can add lots of potential to your odometer. Regular check-ups, filter and tire replacements, and a little discipline can make your car last even longer. Take care of your car so it can take care of you.