Stop doing this to your car

Did you know that some common practices can seriously damage your vehicle? Stop doing this to your car and discover effective ways to keep it in great shape. In this post, we will uncover harmful habits and offer tips to extend the life of your car.

Keeping the car dirty for a long time

Keeping your car dirty may seem harmless, but the truth is that a lack of care with cleaning can cause significant damage. Accumulation of dirt, such as mud, dust and pollutants, can lead to paint corrosion and eventually damage the vehicle's bodywork.

Furthermore, dirt accumulated on the windshield and windows can reduce visibility and increase the risk of accidents. Keeping your car clean also helps preserve the vehicle's value, which is essential if you want to sell it in the future.

Impact on appearance and resale value

A clean and well-maintained car conveys a good impression, always presenting itself as something desirable. Otherwise, the vehicle may appear neglected and cause a depreciation in its market value. Simple actions like washing your car regularly can ensure it remains aesthetically pleasing.

Practical care with aesthetic maintenance

• Periodic washes: Wash the car at least once a week.
• Use of suitable products: Choose specific products for automotive cleaning.
• Waxing the paintwork: Efficient in protecting the paintwork and preventing wear.
• Internal cleaning: Pay attention to the hygiene of carpets, seats and panels.

Ignore strange engine noises

Disregarding strange engine noises can be a costly and dangerous mistake. When your car makes unusual sounds, it's a sign that something is wrong.

Types of noises and their meanings

• Snoring or knocking: It could be a sign of problems with the CV joint or engine mounts.
• Hissy fit: Indicates wear on the timing belt, which can cause engine damage.
• Clicking or squeaking: Problems with the shock absorbers or suspension.
• Whistles: Sign of leaks in the air system.

Importance of technical inspection

When you hear a strange noise, it is crucial to seek out a qualified mechanic to carry out an inspection. Ignoring these small signs can result in greater and more expensive damage in the future. A quick and often cheaper solution can prevent major problems and ensure your safety.

Postpone oil and filter changes

Changing the oil and filters regularly is essential to extend the life of your engine and keep your car performing well.

Consequences of lack of maintenance

Old oils can lose the viscosity necessary to properly lubricate engine parts, leading to premature wear. Likewise, dirty filters prevent the proper flow of air and fuel, overloading the system and consuming more energy.

Suitable frequency for changes

Oil and filter changes must follow the manufacturer's recommendations. In general, maintenance is required every 5.000 to 10.000 km, depending on the type of oil used and the conditions of use of the vehicle.

Checking oil levels

• Park on a level surface and turn off the engine.
• Wait a few minutes for the oil to settle.
• Remove the oil dipstick, clean it and reinsert it.
• Remove the dipstick again to check the oil level and color.

Disregard tire inflation

Keeping your tires properly inflated is crucial to the safety and efficiency of your vehicle. Underinflated or overinflated tires can result in a variety of problems.

Problems caused by out-of-calibration tires

• Fixes uneven wear:: Tires with inadequate inflation wear unevenly, reducing the tire's useful life.
• Increase in fuel consumption: Uncalibrated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel.
• Risk of accidents: Uncalibrated tires impair the vehicle's handling and grip, increasing the risk of accidents.

Correct calculation of tire pressure

Check tire pressure using a pressure gauge, and inflate them according to the manufacturer's specifications, usually found in the car's manual or on stickers on the driver's door. This check must be carried out at least once a month and always before long trips.

FAQ

Why is it important to keep your car clean?

Keeping your car clean prevents paint corrosion, preserves the integrity of the bodywork, improves visibility through the windows and helps maintain the vehicle's resale value.

What can happen if I ignore engine noises?

Ignoring engine noises can lead to serious and expensive damage. Noises can indicate problems with joints, belts, shock absorbers or air systems, and solving these problems quickly can avoid risks and higher costs.

How often should I change my car's oil?

The frequency varies depending on the type of oil and conditions of use, but it is generally recommended to change the oil and filters every 5.000 to 10.000 km. Check your vehicle manual for specific guidance.

How do I know if my tire pressure is correct?

Tire pressure should be checked with a pressure gauge and adjusted according to the manufacturer's specifications, found in the car manual or on stickers on the driver's door. Do this check at least once a month.

What are the signs that indicate the need to change filters?

Signs include high fuel consumption, reduced engine performance, the smell of gasoline when starting the car, and warning lights on the dashboard. Inadequate filtration affects air and fuel flow, impacting engine operation.

Conclusion

Keeping your car dirty, ignoring strange noises, postponing oil and filter changes, and disregarding tire inflation are bad practices that can seriously harm the safety and longevity of your vehicle. These simple precautions guarantee greater durability and better performance, in addition to preventing bigger and more expensive problems in the future. Attention to detail in car maintenance is a matter of safety and economy.