Taking care of your car is not just a woman’s job. In fact, it’s something that all men should be conscientious of if they want their car to last longer. We’ll cover the basics-how to wash and wax it, change the oil and filter, check the tire pressure, and more. So pull up a chair, put your feet up and let’s get started!
Wash and Wax It Regularly
One of the most important things you can do to take care of your car is to wash and wax it regularly. Not only does this keep it looking good, but it also helps protect the paint from damage. Waxing your car also helps seal the paint and makes it less prone to scratches.
How often you need to wash and wax your car depends on how often you drive it and how much dust and dirt it collects. In general, washing it at least once a month and waxing it every three or four months is recommended. If you don’t have time to do it yourself, you can always take it to a car wash. Just be sure to choose one that uses environmentally-friendly products.
Change the Oil and Filter Regularly
Another important step in taking care of your car is regularly changing the oil and filter. Most car manufacturers recommend changing the oil every 5,000 miles or so. However, if you drive in dusty conditions or do a lot of stop-and-go driving, you’ll want to change it more frequently.
When you change the oil, be sure to also change the filter. This will help keep your engine clean and running smoothly. Learning to change your own oil is a great way to save money, and it’s not as difficult as you might think.
Check the Tire Pressure Regularly
Another critical part of taking care of your car is regularly checking the tire pressure. This is something that many people forget to do, but it’s essential for maintaining good fuel economy and preventing flats. Most car tires should be inflated to around 32 psi.
You can buy a tire pressure gauge at any auto parts store, and keeping one in your glove box is a good idea. That way, you can check the pressure whenever you stop for gas. Many gas stations also have air pumps that you can use to inflate your tires if they’re low.
Ship Your Car When Changing Residences
There’s a lot to think about when you’re moving – especially if you’re relocating to another state. But one thing you shouldn’t have to worry about is how to get your car from point A to point B. Whether you’re moving across the country or just across state lines, shipping your car is a convenient and stress-free way to get it to your new home.
The truth is it’s more affordable than you might think. There are open car shipping carriers that can move your car for less than the cost of driving it yourself. And when you factor in the time and money you’ll save by not having to take a road trip, it’s a no-brainer.
Park in the Shade When Possible
Parking in the shade is another vital way to take care of your car. Not only does it keep the car cooler, but it also prevents the paint from fading in the sun. In hot climates, it’s especially important to park in the shade as much as possible.
There are a few ways to find a shady spot when you’re parking. You can check for trees or other large objects that will provide shade or look for parking garages or lots that are covered. If you’re parking on the street, try to find a spot in the shadow of a building.
Use a Sunshade to Keep the Interior Cool
You’ll be surprised how much cooler your car will stay if you use a sunshade. This is especially important in hot climates, but it’s a good idea to use one even in moderate weather. Sunshades help keep the interior of your car cool and protect the upholstery from fading.
The accordion type and the roller shade are the most common sunshades. Accordion sunshades are easy to store and can quickly be placed on the windshield. Roller shades take a little longer to set up, but they provide better coverage. Regardless of what you choose, using a sunshade is a great way to keep your car cool and protect the interior.
Take Care of Your Car, and It Will Take Care of You
Taking care of your car isn’t just about making it look good. It’s also about keeping it running properly and preventing expensive repairs down the road. Following these simple tips, you can keep your car in tip-top shape for years.
