Like any investment or asset we purchase, we’d hope for them to last as long as possible, especially if it’s a new home or car.

And for the first month or so, we’d do anything to keep them in good condition and looking brand new.

For some, this could be getting a new phone — screen protector, phone case, phone insurance, even to go as far as cleaning it once a day with antibacterial wipes. (the missus is all over this)

For others, it could be religiously washing their car every weekend to maintain its shiny good looks.

But as our lives get busier and our passion starts to dwindle, who can be bothered cleaning their car every weekend? 

Not to mention the time taken organising a lift to drop your car off to the mechanic and then having to pick it up.

Now look, we aren’t here to shame you for neglecting your car. In fact, we are going to reveal a couple of little investments that will improve efficiency, increase its lifespan, and reignite that new car feeling. 

 

Have look at what's happening under the bonnet

1. Spark plugs

Depending on how you drive and how often the spark plugs are maintained, spark plugs usually last up to 45,000km, however this is usually all taken care of if you have your car regularly maintained by a mechanic.

Signs to change spark plugs:

• Trouble starting the car in the morning
• High fuel consumption
• Lack of power
• Engine is misfiring
• Rough idling

It’s a fairly simple job you can do by yourself to increase your engine’s performance, efficiency, and can save you in the long run. But we recommend checking your owner’s manual before attempting to change them. 

Top up engine fluids

Make sure to keep all engine fluids topped up and clean. This includes refilling the windscreen wash, checking the oil dipstick and topping up accordingly, and ensuring the coolant is clean and the right colour. While not all fluids are as easy to top up or change, such as the transmission fluid or brake fluid, your mechanic usually covers this with regular servicing.

Replace filters

Filters are used to keep the inside of your car clean. Oil, air and fuel filters each have their own separate filter, which will need replacing at varying periods. Changing these filters every 12 months can improve on fuel efficiency and engine performance.

Keep your battery clean

Leaving your car for a longer period of time, such as going on a much needed holiday, degrades the battery and causes it to go flat. Jump starting the car only puts additional stress on the battery and may damage the engine and other delicate electronics. Consider getting a family member or mate to start your car and leave it running for a few minutes 2-3 days a week. Or use a trickle charge to keep the battery topped-up.

On the outside

Give your car a good wash

This is a no-brainer. Brake dust, dirt, grime, and not to mention bird droppings not only makes your car look like it’s survived an apocalypse, it will eventually cause corrosion to the paint and bodywork if left unchecked. Giving your car a good wash helps keep it looking better for longer.

Check your tyres

Tyres help keep your car safely planted to the road. Driving around with low tyre pressure not only adds to unnecessary risk, it can also significantly hurt your fuel economy. Check the owner’s manual or drivers side door for the correct psi/kPa.

Avoid cheap parts

You wouldn’t build the foundation of your home on cheap materials, the same could be said for your vehicle. Cheap 4WD parts Perth weakens the integrity of your car and effectively reduces its lifespan. 

However, that doesn’t mean you have to go out and spend a small fortune on spare parts. Second-hand parts are just as effective and are generally cheaper than new OEM parts, just make sure you purchase from a reputable used 4WD parts Perth supplier.

Get your car regularly serviced

Of course, the easiest way to prolong the life of your car is to get it regularly serviced. As a car enthusiast, I have my car serviced every 3 to 6 months, but for the most, having your car serviced every 6-12 months is enough to keep it running more efficiently for longer.

Is your windscreen damaged?

Often, we tend to ignore that little chip or crack on our windscreen, after all it’s not blocking your vision right? However, this tiny little crack can spread like wildfire going over even the smallest of bumps and weakening the structural integrity and safety of your car. It could be just a simple repair or a windscreen replacement Perth, which can be done in an hour by an expert.

 

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