An often overlooked component of road safety is vehicle maintenance. A blown out tire or poor alignment can transform a safe drive into a dangerous one in an instant. With that said, keeping your automobile operating in peak condition can help you and other drivers stay safe, thus reducing the risk of a car accident and/or personal injury from happening.
Proper vehicle care does not have to be a long and expensive endeavor. In fact, with a small investment in time and money, you can expand the life of your automobile’s operation and keep it running well to keep you safe.
Here are three strategies you can employ to achieve this.
Conduct Regular Inspections
Becoming acclimated to your vehicle is a great way for you to learn more about its components and identify any issues that might arise. Once a month, you should conduct a visual inspection of your vehicle. You can start with its tires. Look for signs of fraying or uneven treads, as these can be indicators of overuse.
You should also check the fluid levels, belts, and hoses. Lastly, take your vehicle on a test drive, seeing how it handles abrupt stops. If you notice shaking when you apply the brakes, it’s an indicator service is needed.
Bring Your Car in for Regular Service
Adhering to a vehicle’s service schedule is a great way to ensure it operates well. You can determine when to do specific services such as tire rotations or tune-ups in the vehicle owner’s manual.
Normally, the manufacturers specify in miles when to do certain work. Moreover, when you take your automobile to a reputable service shop to have it done, a technician can give your vehicle a full inspection as well. If he or she discovers any problems they can notify you and give you actionable steps to rectify the problem.
Lease Your Vehicle
Leasing a vehicle every few years is a great way to try out new models. Not only do you receive a new vehicle every two to four years, you also gain access to any new safety features that have come out during that time.
In addition, many dealerships offer incentives such as free services like oil changes and tire rotations for the first few years. This is a great way to take advantage of a promotion, test out the newest technological innovations, and keep your vehicle in peak operating condition.
