Is Car Maintenance Actually Worth the Cost?
Transportation can sometimes become the last line item when it comes to assessing a budget. Car maintenance can seem like an extravagant expense or something that you’ll just “get to” at some point.
Don’t get stuck in that mentality. Car repairs will actually save you money in the long run.
Change Your Oil
Changing your car’s oil regularly is one of the most basic – and most important – maintenance steps to take.
It helps keep the car’s engine running smoothly. The general recommendation is to change the oil every 3,000 miles or six months.
It’s possible to extend that to 5,000 miles if the car is a newer model or is in very good condition overall.
Prevent Rust
Car paints don’t just make a car look new and fresh. They also protect the car from rusting.
All metal is susceptible to corrosion and cars are no exception. There are small and tricky spots that can’t be overlooked when painting.
Wheel wells and bumpers get the most dirt buildup which can then lead to rust.
The places where body components meet, like the doors, rub up against each other and chip away the paint.
Surface rust manifests as small chips or nicks. Scale rust is attributed to road salts.
Penetrating rust is what really presents a problem. The car’s steel becomes more brittle and you’ll start to see holes appear.
Improve Safety While Driving
Cracked or broken windows invite trouble. They show that the car isn’t in good repair or is infrequently used.
Unsavory characters may try to take advantage of that. Cracked windows have other safety implications as well.
They’re harder to see out of while driving. Use clear packing tape as a temporary solution.
Attach it vertically on the window’s interior. The car shop will vacuum up any tiny remaining pieces.
The mechanic will then apply a coat of resin to seal everything in place.
Rotate to a New Perspective
Car health also extends to what keeps it all moving: the tires. Regular tire rotation improves the car’s gas mileage.
They should be rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles or at least every six months.
The mechanic removes all the tires and wheels before moving them to another position. This ensures that the tires will wear evenly.
A trip to the mechanic, for car maintenance, is just like a trip to the doctor. It’s a regular checkup that will get you back on the road as quickly as possible.
Category: Personal Finance
