Are you guilty of any of these habits that could hurt your car?
Your car is a big purchase – something you want to take care of.
However, everyone has bad habits, most of us don’t even know we are doing them. Want to extend the life of your car? Make sure you aren’t guilty of these 7 bad habits that can quickly kill your car!
Riding Your Brakes
Don’t ride your brakes going downhill.
Sometimes you need to brake to keep from going too fast, but don’t brake unnecessarily as this can build up heat in the brake pads and rotors causing wear and warping.
Haven’t had your brakes checked lately? Come into AAMCO Minnesota for a brake inspection, your brakes keep you safe!
Related: How to Tell If Your Brakes Are Bad
Consistently Running Low on Gas
Do you have enough gas in your tank?
You notice your fuel gauge is running low, so you stop at the nearest gas station and put $10 into your tank. We’ve all been there – you don’t always have the cash to fill up your tank. However, consistently only putting a few gallons into your car rather than filling it up can wreak havoc on your fuel system in a couple ways.
Some fuel pumps stay cool by staying submerged in the fuel tank, if you are regularly running on less than a quarter tank of gas then you may find yourself needing a fuel pump replacement much quicker.
If you are constantly running on low fuel you are also making your car draw from the very bottom of your fuel tank, where any sediments in the gasoline have settled. Over time you may be pulling these sediments from the bottom of the tank into your fuel lines where they can clog your fuel filers and in some cases slip into your engine causing bigger problems down the line.
Related: Signs It Might Be Time for a New Fuel Pump
Not Using The Parking Brake
Using your parking brake helps your transmission last longer.
You might think you only need to use your parking brake if you are parked on a hill, uneven or slippery surface. However, engaging your parking brake, even on level ground, helps to take the weight of your car off of a piece of metal in your transmission called the parking pawl. It’s a small piece that can wear out easily and using your parking brake will help it to last longer.
Carrying Too Much Weight
The more weight you are carrying the more stress on your car.
If you are carrying a lot of unnecessary weight in your car you are putting stress on your brakes, suspension, and drivetrain. Try not to lug around any weight you don’t need.
Ignoring Your Check Engine Light
Your check engine light is the first sign of trouble.
It might seem convenient to ignore this little light and keep driving if nothing seems immediately wrong – but your check engine light is a warning sign you should not ignore. Driving around with a small issue over time can lead to a much larger and more expensive problem.
Related: Check Engine Lights
Not Checking Your Tire Pressure
Tire pressure isn’t just about having a flat tire.
Making sure your tires are properly inflated is crucial for making sure your car is getting the best fuel economy, otherwise you might be spending more at the pump than you need to be. Proper inflation will also make sure your tires are wearing evenly which will make them last longer.
Skipping Regular Maintenance
Regularly scheduled maintenance extends the life of your car.
There are a few things you do on a regular schedule to help your car perform better, longer.
Oil Changes
Oil changes are typically recommended every 3,000 miles. However, drivers who are in stop and go traffic may need to change their oil more often and it is always best to consult a trusted mechanic or your owner’s manual for the oil change schedule that is best for your car.
Other Fluid Levels
Oil isn’t the only fluid your car needs to run. There are many other fluids that should be checked and topped off during your regular maintenance including brake fluid, transmission fluid, engine coolant and power steering fluid.
Related: Car Maintenance On a Budget
Don’t Neglect the Warning Signs
Come To AAMCO Minnesota – Your Trusted Local Mechanic
Time for your next tune-up, transmission service, oil change, or notice something troubling with your car? Bring it in to your local AAMCO Minnesota location right away for a free multi-point inspection. Our expert mechanics will help you find the problem and fix it right the first time.
It’s easy to schedule online with any of our Minnesota locations today. Be sure to take advantage of our special offers – AAMCO helps keep you safe on the road for less.