Five quick tips to make your car last longer

Let’s be honest, a lot of people do not take good care of their car. They might name it, buy a personalised air freshener and the brave among us might even get some decal on the bumper – but how many people make sure that their car will have a long lifetime? Well, according to research only seven out of ten drivers know how to carry out basic tests like checking oil levels.

It’s not hard, and most of it is common sense – that said, it is important to remind yourself of these titbits of information the next time your MOT swings around. So, without further ado, here are five tips to make your car last longer:

1.     Check your tires and rims regularly

Get a grip. Literally, don’t let your tires get to the point where general wear on your suspension system puts your drive-train under too much pressure – maintaining balance and acceleration are way too important. If you’re not careful, you could find yourself in a sticky situation.

2.     Keep your car’s battery maintained

Your battery has arguably the simplest, yet most important job when it comes to operating your car. To put it simply, it feeds the starter, which in turn starts the engine. However, there are tell-tale signs that your car battery is desperately in need of a replacement. Some of these include: calcified acid around the edges of the battery, swelling or bloating of the case, if you’re starting your vehicle the cranking of the engine takes longer etc. Even though the average UK batteries are estimated to last for seven years, remember to keep your eye out.

3.     Clean your air filter(s) on a regular basis

Just like occasionally blowing your nose or clearing your throat, your car’s air filter needs the odd check now and then so it can breathe. The air filter acts as the last wave of defence against any oncoming debris or dust – by popping it out for a quick clean-up, you can find out if it’s still currently working or needs replacing. Not only does this stop your engine from getting damaged, but it also increases your fuel economy (how much distance you get for your fuel.)

4.     Inspect your car exhaust system

Once again, this tip might seem like a lengthy reminder to keep checking your car – but that is essentially how you prevent it from falling into disrepair. However, unlike previous tips in our list, this one will require a mechanic to do the check. They will have the equipment necessary on hand to do the check properly, and will also know what to do if there is a build-up of corrosion and carbon residue (not the most positive sight when checking the exhaust.)

5.     Wash and clean your car often

Make sure that your car is so spotless that you can see your proud face in it. But seriously, when it comes to cleaning your cars exterior you should aim to do a thorough job. Bird poop, dead insects and even the occasional snow storm will douse your car from spring til winter. Don’t put it off, make sure to give your car the regular wash or detail service it needs – otherwise, that streak of seagull droppings might leave a lasting impression on your expensive paint job.

If you can keep these tips in mind, as well as exercising a regular dosage of common sense, your car should persevere throughout the years without issue.