How to Keep Your Used Car Safe and Reliable Year Round

Owning a car comes with a big financial commitment, so it’s important to take steps that help it last. Especially with a used vehicle, consistent upkeep can make all the difference in how well it performs over time. Read on to learn exactly how to keep your car in excellent condition for the long haul.

Whilst we always hope for smooth travels and can do a lot of checks ourselves to keep our cars healthy, it’s wise to be prepared for any eventuality. Vehicle parts can fail, so having an extended car warranty in place will give you the peace of mind you need.

Regular Battery Maintenance

To keep your car’s battery healthy, regular use is essential. Leaving a vehicle unused for extended periods can cause the battery to deteriorate and eventually lose its charge entirely. To prevent this, aim to drive your car frequently. For batteries that seem to have trouble retaining power, a battery conditioner might help to restore its performance.

In cases where the battery does go flat, knowing how to jump start your vehicle with jump leads can be a useful skill. That said, jump starting should be reserved explicitly for emergencies, as repeated jump starting can place stress on both the battery and your vehicle’s electrical systems.

Smooth Travels

Every time you drive, it’s essential to be mindful of how your driving style is impacting the condition and longevity of your car’s components; this is known as mechanical sympathy. Smooth, considerate driving can go a long way in preserving your vehicle’s health. Where possible, avoid slamming on the brakes, aggressively accelerating, or riding the clutch, as each of these actions places unnecessary strain on your car. Instead, operate the pedals, gear shifts, and steering wheel with deliberate care.

Understanding the basic mechanics of how your vehicle functions can also help you to make smarter decisions on the road. When you drive gently and change speed gradually, not only do you reduce wear and tear on your engine, transmission, and brakes, but you also improve your fuel efficiency. In short, treating your car with respect every time you drive it is one of the easiest and most effective ways to extend its lifespan and lower long term maintenance and repair costs.

Spark Plugs and Leads

Although a mechanic can replace your spark plugs and high tension leads, it’s a task you can usually handle yourself with some basic tools and a bit of elbow grease. Doing it at home can help ensure your engine runs efficiently and performs well on the road. Your vehicle’s manual outlines the correct procedure for this.

Over time, spark plugs can show signs of wear, and when they do, they should be replaced. A healthy spark plug typically has a light brown electrode and insulator with no visible melting, build up, or excessive wear and tear. If the spark plugs appear relatively new but your engine is still struggling, this could point to a deeper issue. With your leads, any visible cracks or damage will signal that it’s time for a replacement. It is likely best for you to leave this to a professional to ensure the leads are fitted properly and perform well.

Regular Fluid Top Ups

Your screen wash tank is located under the bonnet of your car and is usually easy to spot by its blue cap depicting a windscreen icon and a water spray. Making a habit of checking and refilling your screen wash is a small task, but it’s vital for maintaining safe driving conditions, especially when unexpected dirt, salt, or insect debris obscures your view. Ensuring your windscreen stays clear helps you react quickly and drive safely in all weather conditions.

There are two main types of screen wash to choose between: a ready-to-use solution or a concentrated version that needs to be diluted with water. Ready-to-use formulas offer convenience and are ideal for drivers who prefer a quick refill without measuring or mixing. On the other hand, concentrated screen wash is more economical and can be tailored to suit different seasons. You may wish to mix up a stronger solution in winter to prevent freezing and a lighter solution in summer for everyday cleaning.