So you’ve done it! You’ve found the perfect car. That perfect mix of style and power. You’re ready to take it out onto the open road and let her rip. But the last thing you want is for your prized vehicle to tap out before its time. Great cars are like people, and they need love and attention. You need to make sure that you’re helping your vehicle to perform to the highest standard. Here are just a few ways that you can ensure your car is getting the love and attention it deserves.
- Choose the right fuel
Fuelling up should be simple, right? We all know not to fill up a petrol engine with diesel. But with a high-performance vehicle the type of fuel you’re using can make a surprising amount of difference. Higher octane fuels are a high-performance engines best friend. 98 and even 102 RON fuels will provide better mileage and even protect against wear and tear, and damage caused by corrosion and friction. Anyone behind the wheel of a sports car is going to want to go hard now and then. And with the right fuel you can be sure that your engine stays running smoothly, time and time again.
- Know your levels
It’s hardly the most exciting part of owning your dream car but you have to know your levels! Checking your oil and fluid levels at regular intervals can be the difference between driving like a dream and trudging into the garage. The same goes for your tire pressure, lights and signals. To put it in simple terms: take care of your car and your car will take care of you.
- Keep an eye on the weatherYou wouldn’t walk out in a blizzard in a t-shirt and shorts, would you? Then why would you take your car out in four inches of snow without the right tyres? Whatever the weather, you need to make sure that you’re adjusting and maintaining your car accordingly. Your fluid levels are especially important during more extreme months of summer and winter. The coolant, battery, and other areas can all take it especially hard when the weather changes. Keeping a close eye on them can stand between you and a breakdown.
- Do your research
This is so important. You have to know your engine. No two cars are alike, and it’s crucial that you know the ins and outs of yours. Toyota repair manuals aren’t going to help you understand and Audi or Mercedes. So do your homework, make sure you have your repair manual and, if in doubt, ask a qualified mechanic for advice.
- Keep it clean!
Now, this may not seem as important but keeping your car clean will affect how you treat it overall. Regularly cleaning your car inside and out will help you get into the habit of maintaining it. Plus, making sure that your car is clean can improve its lifespan. The salt, dirt, and grime can cause rust on the frame, making your car less attractive or worse! Besides, your beloved car isn’t going to be as impressive if it looks like you just dragged it out of a swamp.