Some actions cost more than others in the long run. If you don’t want to end up with an expensive car repair bill, you should avoid the following mishaps as much as possible.
Neglecting Fluid Services
From coolant to transmission and brake fluid, your vehicle relies on several lubricants to stay healthy and strong. When they’re not replaced according to schedule, you could be looking at trouble.
Continuing to Drive When a Car Overheats
There are a few techniques you can try out if you see your temperature gauge rise, but if the gauge doesn’t start to decrease or if it’s rising rapidly, you should stop driving immediately. See our tips on what to do if your car overheats.
Hitting Potholes
Often this can’t be avoided, but you should skirt around potholes whenever you can. Depending on the severity of the hit, they can cause extensive damage to wheels, steering components and other expensive systems.
Skipping Basic Maintenance
Too busy to get your oil changed? It could cost you thousands in engine repairs. Forgot that you need to have your air filter changed? It’s much, much less expensive to replace than a failing oxygen sensor or catalytic convertor. The fact is that when you skip basic services, it can affect more expensive parts, so it’s important to stay on track with routine maintenance.
Towing With Vehicles That Aren’t Properly Equipped
If you don’t want to risk having your car’s bumper or other parts torn off, leave towing duties to vehicles that are equipped to handle the scale of the job.
Rolling on Low-Pressure Tires
Tires with low pressure are more likely to blow out than those that are properly inflated. On top of replacement costs, you’re looking at a potential accident that could cause harm to you and other drivers. If your vehicle doesn’t have a tire pressure monitoring system, make sure you check the pressure on a regular basis using a tire gauge.
Servicing Your Own Vehicle
This goes hand in hand with going to a shop where the technicians may not be properly qualified to repair your car. Particularly for newer, more high-tech vehicles, using OEM-trained mechanics is the best way to go if you want to ensure your car is in good hands.
See additional car service and performance tips here to learn more about how you can protect your car.
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