Your car is a major investment and with the economy the way it is people are trying to keep their cars for longer periods of time. No matter if you have a new or used vehicle there are many things that can be done to extend the life of your car. There are a variety of maintenance procedures that can be done and the way you drive also effects how long your car will stay in good running condition.
Besides taking care of the engine and interior of the car, you also want to keep the outside in mint condition. When you decide to sell or trade in the vehicle you will get a higher price for a well maintained sharp looking car.
To keep the exterior of your car in mint condition you should wash and wax it often. You can also use a custom car cover to protect the paint finish and your investment. A car cover that is made specifically for your make and model of vehicle will keep it protected from the harsh elements and Mother Nature. A car cover that is securely locked into place also will deter prying eyes from seeing your vehicle.
If you just bought a brand new vehicle there are several things you can do to prolong the life of your automobile. You will want to baby the car during the break in period which is usually considered the first 1,000 miles. During this time you should keep your speed at around 55 mph.
When you are breaking in your vehicle you should not let it idle for long periods of time. This is because the oil pressure when idling does not send oil to every part of the engine. This is also advice that can be heeded for the life of your car but is especially important during the break in period.
You should not pull heavy loads during this time. This includes towing trailers and loading down the vehicle with heavy materials. This way you will avoid putting a lot of weight on the drive train. During the first couple of hours of driving a new vehicle you should only use light to moderate acceleration. It is best to keep the RPM's down below 3,000.
A good way to prolong the life of your car is to drive with care. A quick way to add years to your engines lifespan is to race your car's engine when you are first starting it up. This is especially true during the break in period and when it is cold outside. To save strain on your transmission you can shift into neutral at red lights. This is due to the fact that your engine is still trying to push the car forward even when it is stopped.
You worked hard to be able to get the car of your dreams. If you take care of the engine and service it when recommended you can prolong the life of your car. You should also protect the outside of your vehicle with a custom car cover to make sure it stays in prime condition for years to come.
Ryan Draving is the VP of Empire Covers, a leading provider of car covers, truck covers, motorcycle covers, and other vehicle covers and accessories. Empire Covers can be found online at: EmpireCovers.com or at their blog, www.EmpireCovers-Blog.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ryan_Draving