If you’re like many people, you may find yourself staying home for long periods of time due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While this may be a difficult time for many reasons, it can also be an opportunity to focus on some important tasks around the house – like taking care of your car.
It’s crucial that drivers keep their vehicles in good condition, not only for their safety but also for the safety of others. Here are eight easy ways to take care of your car while at home to ensure that it runs well for years to come.
1. Park in a garage if possible.
If you have the luxury of a garage, by all means, park your car inside. Not only will this protect it from the elements, but it will also help keep it clean! A shocking amount of damage to cars can be caused by just rain and snow, so parking in a garage is a great way to avoid this. It’s also one of the most common ways a windshield can become cracked or damaged. The best way to prevent this is to park in a garage whenever possible.
2. Keep the interior clean.
Another important way to take care of your car while at home is to keep the interior clean. This means both the inside and outside of the windows, as well as all surfaces of the car. Dust, dirt, and other debris can cause damage over time, so it’s important to clean it off on a regular basis. There is no need to break out the cleaning supplies every day, but you should aim to clean the interior at least once a week.
3. Change the oil and spark plugs.
One of the most important things you can do to take care of your car is to regularly change the oil and spark plugs. This may seem like a daunting task, but it’s really not that difficult – and it’s well worth the effort. Not only will this help keep your car running smoothly, but it will also help extend its life. You should change the oil and spark plugs every six months or so, depending on how often you drive your car.
4. Preserve the battery.
One of the most common problems with cars is a dead battery. This can be caused by several things, such as leaving the lights on or using the car for too long without starting it up. One way to help preserve the battery is disconnecting the negative terminal when the car isn’t in use. You can also buy a battery charger to keep in your car and use it regularly to keep the battery healthy.
5. Check the tires.
Another important thing to check on a regular basis is your tires. Tires that are low on air or have too much wear can be dangerous and can lead to accidents. It’s a good idea to check your tire pressure at least once a month and to replace your tires when they start to show signs of wear. Many people don’t think about their tires until it’s too late, so make sure to add this to your regular car care routine!
6. Use a windshield washer fluid.
While you’re checking the tires, it’s also a good idea to check the windshield washer fluid. This is the liquid that is used to clean the windshield and help you see while driving. If it’s low, you can top it off with some distilled water. You should also make sure to use a quality windshield washer fluid – something like Rain-X can help keep your windshield clean and clear.
7. Bring your car in for professional maintenance.
Even if you take great care of your car at home, there will come a time when you need to take it in for professional maintenance. This is especially important if you’re not familiar with car repair and maintenance. A good way to avoid any costly problems is to bring your car in for a tune-up or oil change regularly. By doing this, you can ensure that all the important components of your car are working properly and that no expensive repairs are needed.
8. Drive safely!
The most important thing of all when it comes to taking care of your car is to drive safely. This means being aware of your surroundings at all times and using caution when driving in bad weather or on busy roads. Follow the rules of the road and always use caution when behind the wheel. By following these simple tips, you can help keep your car in good condition for years to come!
Schedule Professional Maintenance Once or Twice Per Year
No matter how well you take care of your car at home, there will come a time when you need to take it in for professional maintenance. This is especially important if you’re not familiar with car repair and maintenance. A good way to avoid any costly problems is to bring your car in for a tune-up or oil change on a regular basis. By doing this, you can ensure that all the important components of your car are working properly and that no expensive repairs are needed.
It’s also important to remember that professional maintenance should not be limited to just the periodic check-ups – it’s also necessary to take your car in for service whenever you notice something wrong. If you’re experiencing problems with your car, don’t hesitate to bring it in for a diagnostic. This will help identify the issue and determine the best course of action to take.
Taking care of your car while at home doesn’t have to be difficult. By following these simple tips, you can help keep your car in great shape – and avoid any costly repairs down the road. Park in a garage, keep the interior clean, change the oil and spark plugs, and preserve the battery – and you’re good to go! For more important tips on car maintenance, be sure to check out our blog or contact us directly for a free consultation. Thanks for reading!