As you know, preventative maintenance can help slow down the wear and tear of your vehicle. While maintenance is an excellent habit to get into, the way you drive your car can completely negate it and cause premature wear and damage. So are you rough on your car? Let’s find out how these habits can cause extensive repairs:
Habit 1: Letting gas levels drop too low or run out completely
Some people hate the act of filling up, while others just don’t want to fork out money at the pump. So, they wait until the fuel light comes on. Or even worse, it always gets too late, and they end up stranded. It can end poorly for your vehicle’s fuel system because the bottom of your fuel tank is not the cleanest. It has sediments that can end up in the engine and hurt its components if you run your fuel too low (all the time).
Habit 2: Harsh Acceleration and Braking
Unless you’re a professional race car driver, you shouldn’t have sudden speed changes. Rapid acceleration can cause wear and tear on your drivetrain. Plus, it will most likely result in sudden braking, especially when driving in stop-and-go conditions. Therefore, it can wear down your brakes rapidly too. If you don’t want frequent repairs on these parts, go easy on your car’s foot pedals. Your passengers will thank you.
Habit 3: Forgetting to Use the Parking Brake When You Park
Most people forget that the emergency brake is also called the parking brake. It is called that way for a good reason – you’re supposed to use it every time you turn off your car. Whether you are parked on an inclined hill or flat surface, this will protect your vehicle’s transmission. When the e-brake is engaged, the weight of your vehicle is distributed evenly.
Habit 4: Speeding Over Bumps and Potholes
Last but not least, we notice drivers love breaking the rules. They put too much trust in speed bumps and potholes. As a result, they fly over them without considering the consequences. When you hit these road obstacles at improper speeds, you can damage your suspension, shift your wheels out of alignment, and hurt your vehicle’s undercarriage. You should take it slow over both and dodge potholes when you can.
These practices may seem like no big deal, and you may think that it won’t happen to you. However, these damages are more likely to occur if you continue to neglect these habits. If you need maintenance or repairs on your car, please call or visit the experts at Oswald’s Service Inc. today.