All right so 2019 is here! Happy New Year everyone! Here are 5 things to become a better car owner this year 🙂 :
1. Keep my car clean
It is true that one can find many excuses not to keep its car in the best possible condition. “The weather is gross, so my car will get dirty again soon”, “I have a busy week”, or “I am simply too tired”. But the truth is that your car will last longer if you choose to take care of it like a newborn baby. Some people are so in love with their car that they clean it every weekend and while the neighbors may make fun of them, it is the right thing to do (OK maybe not EVERY weekend).
2. Check the tire pressure
This is a big one and people don’t realize how important it is to check this especially if commuting a lot. A tire that doesn’t have the proper pressure is an unnecessary hazard and can quickly and unexpectedly put you and your family at risk. Nowadays it is easy to buy electronic devices to check this by yourself, when the tires are cold, just before hitting the road.
3. Have the right tools to change a tire
Last time I blew a tire, it was in the middle of the desert and it happened around noon, with the burning sun looking at the scene. It was also on an uphill road and it seemed like a good time and place to painfully realize that my scissor jack wasn’t adequate at all. After half an hour in the sun, a Good Samaritan finally came to the rescue. Let me tell you that as soon as I made it to my destination I ordered something more convenient to prevent being stranded again. Also, be aware that many new cars don’t have a spare tire anymore. In that case, it is wise to arm yourself with an anti-puncture spray that will make you able to drive to the next mechanic. A good option is also to call for road assistance while making sure you wait in a safe spot if you are on the freeway.
4. Learn how to check the oil
The health of your engine depends on it and it is in fact pretty simple to check the oil level. Simply locate the dipstick in your engine block. Pull it off, wipe the oil off, and then put it back in to remove it once again. Now check the small indication levels to see how far the oil run in the dipstick. If the oil is below the minimum mark, it is time to add some. You did it!
5. Stop eating/drinking in it
Ok so it is the morning and I finish my breakfast while commuting to work but by the end of each week, the number of bacteria and trash in my car is record breaking. Occasionally, I spill coffee on the seats (and on myself) while using the brake unexpectedly. Do yourself and your car a favor and get up five minute earlier to eat at home. Not to mention that eating or drinking in your vehicle is taking your attention away from the road and is dangerous.
