The upkeep of a vehicle that is used regularly requires a significant amount of effort. There is a list of things that need to be done, such as checking and changing the oil, replacing the tires, keeping it clean, etc. But even if you won’t be driving it for a long time, should you continue to stick to the maintenance plan? The response is “yes” If you want to keep your automobile in good driving condition even if you don’t drive it very frequently, give these six vital maintenance techniques a try.
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- Maintain your oil change schedule
It is a good idea to follow the “whatever comes first” guideline when it comes to oil and other critical fluids. This will help ensure that you do not waste any of these fluids. In other words, the majority of manufacturers suggest that you replace it every 6,000 kilometers (or every six months), whichever occurs first. Even if you don’t drive your car very frequently, the oil and the various compounds that are contained inside it may still age and perhaps deteriorate over time.
- Drive your car every once in a while
Automobiles are intended for continuous operation. When you run the engine, the fluids are permitted to circulate, and the oil is transferred to the many sections of the vehicle that need lubrication. When you park your car for an extended period of time without driving it, fluids may pool, and your engine may lose the vital lubrication it requires. The battery in your car will ultimately expire if it hasn’t been used for an extended period of time and starts.
You may lessen the impact of this by going for a quick drive in your car once or twice every week, or even once every few days. You may also just start your car and let it run at a low speed for a few minutes, but it is essential to keep your tires moving as much as possible so that they can keep their flexibility.
- Keep an eye on tire pressure
Even if you don’t drive very often, your tires may still develop even the tiniest of cracks over time and progressively lose air pressure. It is also possible for them to acquire a condition known as “tire rot,” which causes the rubber to become brittle and hard if you do not drive them too often. Because of this, you should make it a habit to check the pressure in your tires on a regular basis. When you are ready to go back on the road, you won’t have to be concerned about getting a flat tire!
- Keep a full tank of gas
Before leaving your car parked for a lengthy period of time, you should try to remember to fill up the petrol tank. It is possible for the interior of the fuel tank to start rusting if there is no gasoline present, which might lead to major difficulties in the future.
- Cover your car or clean the exterior regularly
The accumulation of debris such as leaves and sticks on your vehicle over time might be harmful. If plant matter is allowed to build in an area that is also exposed to dampness, the tannic acid that is included in the plant matter can gradually eat away at your paint and may also destroy plastic and rubber seals.
If your vehicle is going to be parked for an extended period of time, you should be sure to clean it on a regular basis to avoid the gradual damage and degradation that may occur. Alternatively, there are a variety of car coverings that may protect your vehicle from being damaged by the sun as well as plant matter.
- Clean the interior
Ensure that the inside of the car is always clean and clear of discarded food items and packaging. However, it may be challenging to maintain it spotless (particularly when there are children around). Even while a few stray crumbs may not produce lasting aromas, it is possible for them to attract pests if they are left in one place for an extended period of time.
Before you park your car for a lengthy period of time without using it, you should give the inside a careful check and clean all of the crevices and nooks with a vacuum cleaner.
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