Being a car owner and driver comes with a lot of responsibilities that many people may overlook.
Being a car owner and driver comes with a lot of responsibilities that many people may overlook. Sure, you follow the road rules and you pay your car insurance, but are you giving your car the best care it needs? You may be part of the demographic that are unaware of the bad habits they have that may be damaging their car.
Are you one of them? Let’s find out...
Did you know that resting your hand on the gearstick can cause you to unintentionally apply pressure to the selector fork and internal parts of your car? Over time, this habit can reduce the lifespan of the car’s gearbox components and can lead to gear noise. Remember when your driving instructor told you to keep your hands on the wheel? This is one of the many reasons!
When you don’t change your oil, it eventually breaks down and becomes polluted with dust and debris and that can cause problems for your car. Oil plays a vital role because it keeps the engine lubricated, cools moving parts in your engine and promotes the longevity of your vehicle. Change your engine’s oil at least twice a year or every 5 000 km you drive.
When you have a large load in your car, you’re putting additional strain on your brakes, tyres and engine. Your tyres and brakes may wear out quicker than normal, and, because your engine works harder to make your car move, engine damage may occur. So, it’s best to make carrying heavy loads the exception – rather than an everyday occurrence.
It’s important to make sure that the oil in your car warms up before you start applying too much acceleration – this is to ensure that the engine runs smoothly to prevent potential damage. Driving “gently” for five to ten minutes or so to give the engine oil a chance to warm up and circulate.
If you’re guilty of these habits, then it’s best that you stop to ensure that your car is kept in good condition and you don’t risk causing permanent damage to parts of it.
Just continue to live your way and remember to drive responsibly!
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