BLOG – UNDER THE HOOD

Whether you are driving an old second-hand beater or lucky enough to be riding around in your dream car, taking care of it and extending the life of your car should be pretty close to the top of your to-do list. Just like your home, your car needs consistent attention, cleaning and maintenance. Even if it’s not the most glamorous vehicle, it can still last you a long time with proper care.

Keeping on top of your car-care list can also benefit you financially. Not only will you help cut down on possible big repair bills, but when it comes time to sell or trade in your vehicle for a new one, the value can potentially be much higher if you’ve taken good care of it. 

Change the Oil 

Yeah, we know you’ve heard this one before, but we’ll say it again because many people don’t realize the importance of clean oil in your engine. The oil lubricates and cools essential components to your vehicle’s engine and when it’s left it becomes a harmful, sludgy substance that will quickly wear down and eventually destroy your engine. You can drastically extend the life of your car and engine by keeping up with regular oil changes. 

If it seems to be hard on the budget to stop in at the local shop every 5000-8000kms to get it done, consider learning how to do it on your own. While it can be a bit messy, an oil change is a super simple thing to learn and buying the oil & filter yourself can drastically cut the cost.

Keep It Clean – Inside and Out

This one also seems too easy and obvious, but if not done regularly, dirt and grime in your vehicle can shorten its life significantly. During the winter months, the salt and sand from the roads and snow can cause damage to the body of your car if left. The same goes for the carpets and floor inside the car. Road salt is harsh and will eventually eat away at the interior or exterior of your vehicle. 

No matter the season, wash your vehicle inside and out often (but not too often). Give the carpets a good vacuum and shampoo, use a protective spray for the dash and doors and condition the seats if they are leather. Use gentle, non-abrasive cleaners for the outside and keep dirt, grime and rust from ruining your ride. 

Don’t Drive Like Your Commute is A Nascar Track

Not only do you look a little jerkish, but driving like a crazy person is hard on your vehicle and some of its most important components. Quick acceleration and hard braking put stress on your vehicle’s systems and will contribute to earlier wear and tear. So don’t speed or take off at the lights like a rocketship and you’ll help extend the overall life of your car. 

Store Your Car In The Garage

If your garage has the space, store your vehicle inside. While cars are built pretty tough and can withstand some crazy types of weather, storing it indoors ensures it will last longer. You’ll avoid snow and ice build up (and possible scratching with the snow scraper), you lower the risk of hail or tree damage and no little critters can set up shop inside the warm engine. 

Stay On Top of Repairs

While small damage might not seem like a big deal at the time, leaving that problem could potentially mean a huge repair bill down the road. For example, repairing a small patch of rust can prevent it from spreading, and getting a windshield chip filled can save you from having to replace the entire windshield. A small job will always be easier on the wallet then letting it get bigger and bigger and it’s these small repairs that help prolong the life of your car. 

Do A Little Light Reading

You know the little booklet in the glove compartment? Yeah, the owner’s manual. Well, all cars come with one for a good reason. While the general maintenance of every vehicle is the same, every car will differ slightly. So pick up the manual and read through it. Ensure your tires are at the proper PSI and that you’re keeping up with the check-up schedule recommended for your particular make and model. Tire pressure, fluid changes and top ups, as well as some of the fancy features your car might have, are all things to keep on top of if you want your vehicle to last you a long time.

Vehicles are not just a one time investment. They require more money and time after the initial purchase. But if a vehicle is properly taken care of, you can end up saving money and making more when it comes time to sell and upgrade. 

If your ride is in need of a bit of TLC like a body repair or windshield fix, CSN JD Collision is here to straighten it out. We are a local, family owned and operated auto body shop in Cold Lake and Bonnyville, Alberta. We encourage you to keep up with fixes and maintenance and have a little pride in your ride. To book an appointment or to get a quote, contact us today