Your car is a significant investment that took your hard-earned money to acquire. As a responsible vehicle owner, taking good care of it is in your best interest. Like all heavy machines, cars have various parts that require regular maintenance to function correctly.
If ignored, your car will eventually break down, leaving you with no choice but to spend considerable sums on repairs. The last thing you want is a problematic car in the middle of the highway. But you can avoid such a scenario. Here is a comprehensive guide to full maintenance of your vehicle.
Tow Services
Nobody ever buys a car expecting it to break down completely. However, the reality is that cars malfunction at the most unexpected times. And it is not because you are a terrible driver or forgot to schedule regular maintenance. No, sometimes it’s just not your fault. Besides, accidents happen, and your car gets wrecked.
Car collisions are prevalent on American roads. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported over 6 million passenger car accidents in the U.S. in 2021. That’s a significant number! In the world of probabilities, you may have an accident, or your car breaks down in the middle of the road.
Whether you are stranded on the side of the road due to an unexpected breakdown or involved in a car accident, you need a reliable heavy duty towing service provider. You need someone trustworthy to come to your aid and rescue the situation. A tow company will transport your vehicle from the scene to a repair shop or your home.
Vehicle full maintenance services usually have contact and networks with reputable tow companies. Alternatively, consider researching and saving a few reliable ones on your phone. It’s always better to prepare than to get caught up in an emergency with no one to turn to.
Vehicle Care
Your car’s full maintenance involves taking a proactive preventative approach that entails regular care and check-ups. You don’t have to wait until something goes wrong. You can help keep it running smoothly and effectively by staying vigilant.
There are a few things that you can do to keep your car in good condition. First, always ensure your tires have the proper pressure and alignment. Secondly, change the oil regularly, preferably every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, as the AAA recommends. Some car manufacturers offer full maintenance packages that include regular oil changes.
For instance, an all-inclusive BMW service covers maintenance work and wear-and-tear repairs for a set period or mileage. If you take advantage of such offers, you will prevent breakdowns and expensive repairs and replacements. Additionally, check coolant levels to avoid overheating or damage to engine parts.
Moreover, full maintenance also includes keeping your car clean both inside and outside. Regular washing prevents rusting and keeps your vehicle looking good. Remember the interior; vacuum regularly and immediately wipe down any spills or stains.
Car Maintenance
Like all machines, your car has components that eventually wear out. The many moving parts of your vehicle require regular full maintenance to function correctly and avoid breakdowns. For example, brake pads and spark plugs all have a limited lifespan. Therefore, you need to pay attention to such parts.
The best way is to schedule regular full maintenance checks with your mechanic. Essential car maintenance entails checking car parts, including fluid levels, belts, spark plugs, and wires, and repairing or replacing defective parts. A professional will identify any potential issues and repair components. They may also recommend the replacement of worn-out parts or ones near the end of their lifespan.
Regular maintenance checks will save you time and money and help extend the life of your vehicle. Even if you’re always busy, make a point to set aside time for them. Besides, the repairs you will face if you don’t perform maintenance will be comparatively high. The American Automobile Association estimates regular maintenance costs are about $792 per year or $66 monthly.
Furthermore, minor issues such as transmission repairs and belt replacement can prevent much more significant problems that need towing. For instance, if your vehicle’s belt breaks, you can’t drive. You will get stuck in the middle of the highway. However, you can avoid all these issues by paying attention to maintenance.
Further Repairs
Despite your best efforts, accidents and breakdowns can still occur. You may hit a pothole that damages your suspension or encounter engine trouble while on the road. Some other vehicle might hit you while parked on a street. You can never predict when and how the damage will occur.
Whatever the case, prepare for such situations. While insurance may help you with major repairs, it won’t cover everything. Usually, insurance coverage has a minimum amount you need to meet for it to apply. You may have to foot the bill yourself.
It’s, therefore, essential to set aside an emergency fund for unexpected repairs or damages that insurance won’t cover. Ideally, set aside at least $500 in your savings account dedicated solely to car repairs. It will save you from financial strain and give you peace of mind, knowing that you can handle any situation that comes your way.
Tire changes, battery replacement, oil leaks, and auto wheel repair are some of the most common car repair needs. With this in mind and a security fund in place, you won’t fail to get to work or make a trip because of car breakdowns. You can quickly call your mechanic with no worries and have the issue resolved immediately.
Paint Maintenance
Full maintenance isn’t just about keeping your car’s engine running smoothly. It also involves taking care of the exterior, including the paint. Everyone wants a nice-looking vehicle. While it’s not illegal to have a crummy paint job, the lack of proper maintenance is enough to attract the attention of law enforcement. You don’t want police to stop everywhere you go.
Additionally, well-maintained paintwork on your car reflects well on you. A shiny vehicle gives an impression of your attention to detail and self-respect, especially if you want to sell it. According to CNN, minor and easy repairs such as repainting and waxing faded parts could increase your vehicle’s resale value by about $2,000.
So, how do you maintain paint? The most significant step is to wash regularly and wax! Wash your vehicle at least once a week. If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions or drive on dirt roads, wash it more often. Waxing helps prevent moisture from the paintwork, preventing rusting and other damage.
You can also touch up any minor scratches before they become big problems. You can use a paint repair pen or take your car to a professional auto body shop for more severe cases. Such small steps will help keep your vehicle looking good and give you a negotiation edge if you decide to sell it.
At-Home Vehicle Protection
Even if you’ve packed your car in a garage, you must take extra steps to keep it secure. The National Insurance Crime Bureau reported 1,001,967 car theft cases in 2022. That represents a 7% increase from the previous year. A good number of these thefts happened in residential areas.
So, how do you protect your car at home? First, ensure that your garage is secure. If it has an issue, get a garage door repair service. Next, if you do not have a garage, consider installing security features such as a camera or alarm system to monitor your car’s whereabouts.
Furthermore, always lock your car doors and never leave valuables inside when parked at home. You can also use anti-theft devices like steering wheel locks, alarms, and GPS tracking systems. That way, you can quickly locate and retrieve your vehicle in case of theft.
Apart from security features, at-home vehicle protection includes creating a nice place to pack your car. For example, installing epoxy floors in your garage protects against stains and spills. You can also invest in car covers to protect your vehicle from harsh weather conditions or falling debris.
Other Vehicles
Besides your primary car, it’s also essential to consider the maintenance and protection of any other vehicles you own. That includes motorcycles and boats. These vehicles may require different maintenance checks and protection measures, but they are just as essential.
For instance, motorcycle accidents, like car accidents, are unfortunately common on our roads. According to Forbes, 5,579 people died in fatal traffic accidents in 2023. While most of these accidents are due to speeding and reckless driving, a good number are due to a lack of proper maintenance. Therefore, ensure you take your motorcycle for regular check-ups and follow all manufacturer recommendations.
Similarly, boats also require proper full maintenance to keep them running smoothly. That includes regular engine checks and inspections to prevent any damage or malfunctions while you are out on the water. Protecting your boat from harsh weather conditions is essential by correctly storing and covering it when stored. Taking care of all your vehicles, not just your primary ones, will save you from costly repairs and accidents.
Car Accidents
Car accidents are inevitable. Even if you’re a good driver and follow all the traffic rules, you never know about the other drivers on the road. You may be in a car accident at some point in your driving life. While this is not something anyone wants to experience, knowing what to do in such an unfortunate situation is essential.
First and foremost, ensure everyone involved is safe and call for medical assistance if necessary. Next, contact the police and report the incident immediately, even if it seems like a minor fender bender. Reporting to the authorities is essential for making insurance claims and strengthening your case.
After that, contact any motor vehicle accidents lawyers for legal advice and representation. They can help you navigate the courts and protect your rights even if you are at fault. They can also deal with your insurance company and ensure you receive fair compensation.
If someone gets injured, contact an accident injury attorney to help you file a claim. That idea is to ensure you get compensation to cover medical expenses and other damages. Having a legal expert on your side is crucial, especially in such stressful and complicated situations. Remember, it’s always better to prepare than deal with the consequences later.
Lastly, following up on necessary repairs after a car accident is vital. Failure to do so can result in further damage and even more costly repairs. Always consult a trusted mechanic and follow manufacturer recommendations for replacements or fixes.
Insurance
Nothing better protects you and your car than an insurance policy. In the case of car accidents, having comprehensive auto insurance can save you from hefty expenses. It offers full maintenance in case of damages and covers any medical costs resulting from an accident.
Car accidents can be expensive. According to Forbes, car accident settlements range between $20,000 and $25,000. That includes repairs and medical bills. In case of fatalities, the cost can be even more, extending into millions, according to the National Safety Council. That’s a huge bill to pay out of pocket. You need insurance coverage to protect you and your car from these unforeseen costs.
However, it’s essential to research and compare different insurance policies before settling for one. Ensure you understand each policy’s terms and coverage to make an informed decision. It’s also a good idea to review your policy annually or when significant life changes occur, to ensure that you have adequate coverage.
Moreover, always carry your insurance information while driving. It will be helpful in an accident or if your vehicle gets stolen. Taking these steps will protect your car and give you peace of mind while on the road.
Remember, owning a car means taking full responsibility for its maintenance. It’s not just about driving it around; it’s about keeping you and your vehicle safe. Regular check-ups, proper care, and vigilance are part of your responsibilities as a car owner. Follow this guide, and you’ll be well on your way to ensuring your vehicle stays in top condition wherever you go.
