Proper maintenance is key to maximizing the life of your car. Whether your plan is to put 150,000 miles on it or just to get the best possible trade-in value after 75,000 miles, you need to keep it the best possible condition. Good maintenance will also save you money on fuel and tires, and it could even help you avoid an accident. Here are four steps to making that happen.
Follow the Manufacturer’s Recommendations
One thing you need to understand about car maintenance is that cutting corners will appear to work at the time but will eventually catch up with you. From the first day you own your car, you should perform maintenance as suggested by the owner’s manual. Those recommendations were developed by the engineers who designed the car, so they’re the best possible advice on taking care of it.
Use Quality Parts for Repairs
The internet is full of after-market parts suppliers. Just one quick search for compatible parts will yield dozens of results. These parts are often used by private mechanics as a cost-saving measure, but going cheap will hurt you in the long run. Insist on Toyota spare parts for your vehicle so that it will always be 100% manufacturer quality for as long as you own it.
Take Quick Action on Problems
Whether it’s the expense, the hassle, or the time involved, many of us procrastinate on car repairs. While a few problems can be put off until it’s more convenient, the overwhelming majority of issues should be addressed immediately. Small problems can sometimes grow to a point that the car becomes dangerous to drive, while others can simply compound the problem by damaging other parts. The moment you notice a problem or see a warning light, visit a mechanic.
Don’t Neglect Its Appearance
Nobody was ever stuck on the side of a road because their car was dirty, but good maintenance of the car’s appearance does matter. Washing the car properly will preserve its paint, and the time you spend looking closely at the vehicle’s exterior could reveal problems with the lights, glass, mirrors, or tires that do require attention for safety’s sake. Good washing and waxing will keep the car looking great for either your own long-term use or for resale.
Taking good care of your vehicle is a good investment of your time and money. It will keep you safer, save you money on fuel and repairs, and eventually help you recover some of that investment when you sell the car.
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