With a new year, comes new resolutions. Most of the time these resolutions are health and wellness focussed, but we're offering you something a bit different. Here are five New Year’s resolutions every car owner should make.
Schedule that annual service
This is for those who own a car out of service and warranty periods. If your vehicle is due for a service, make it happen. Putting it off could only result in issues not being caught in time, which in turn results in a much bigger bill to pay when you absolutely have to carry out repairs. Not to mention a wonky car is a dangerous car.
Check the oil and water on a regular basis
When the petrol attendant asks if they can check your oil and water, say yes every once in a while. A number of issues lead to cars running out of oil and water and you don’t want to suddenly break down on the side of the road because you were caught without one or the other (or both!). If the attendant tells you its low, top it up immediately.
Check your tyres
Tyres are not meant to last forever, but many people tend to go for extended periods without checking this essential part of their vehicles. There could be unknown wear and tear that is easily detectable if you do a regular tyre check. Worn or damaged tyres can lead to tyre blowouts, which could end up quite disastrous. While you’re at it – check your spare tyre too!
Ensure that your car is rain ready
Checking your tyres fall under this as well – that they have good tread level left in order to adequately disperse water – but the same goes for checking your wipers. Worn out wiper blades lead to low visibility and when the rains come, could lead to an accident. Also ensure that your brakes are strong and in good working order (no shudder or excessive noises under braking) and that all your lights are in working order.
Don’t drive your car too hard
This might sound obvious but try to reduce your fuel and running costs, by not driving your car too hard this year. If you’re not in a hurry, you don’t have to drive your car at ‘ten tenths’ like Lewis Hamilton to get to your destination. Take it easy, slow down to a reasonable pace and cruise instead of maintaining the highest speed possible. This will not only save you money on fuel in the long run, but it will also keep your car in tip top shape for longer.
