While routine maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, is vital, your everyday driving habits are just as important to your car’s long-term health. By steering clear of harmful behaviors behind the wheel, you can avoid major repairs, keep your car running smoothly, and save money.
There are common driving habits that could be damaging your vehicle. Simple changes in how you drive can extend your car’s life and help prevent unnecessary repairs.
Hard braking and sudden stops
Hard braking wears out brake pads quickly and can damage rotors and suspension. Maintain distance and anticipate traffic. Smooth, gradual braking is safer, more economical, and reduces brake wear.
Accelerating aggressively
Slamming the gas burns extra fuel and strains your engine and transmission. Gradual acceleration protects engine parts and improves performance. Accelerate steadily and avoid speeding off from lights.
Ignoring dashboard warning lights
Ignoring dashboard warnings can cause severe engine damage or pricy repairs. If a warning light appears, check your manual or seek help from a mechanic immediately.
Shifting gears without stopping
Shifting between reverse and drive while moving can severely damage your transmission. Always stop completely before shifting to prevent costly repairs.
Letting your car idle excessively
Excessive idling wastes fuel, strains your engine, and can cause carbon buildup. Modern cars warm up best while driving, so turn the engine off if you’ll be stopped for more than a minute.
Riding the clutch
For a manual transmission, resting your foot on the clutch when not shifting wears the clutch assembly. Only press the clutch to shift gears to extend its life.
Overloading your car
Going over your car’s weight limit strains the engine, suspension, and brakes. Check your load capacity and avoid unneeded cargo. Extra weight lowers fuel efficiency and increases the risk of breakdowns.
Driving on rough roads
Frequent driving on rough or unpaved roads accelerates wear on your car’s suspension, tires, and alignment. When unavoidable, slow down and watch for hazards, such as potholes. Afterward, check for any damage to your tires and suspension.
Driving with underinflated tires
Driving on tires that are not properly inflated increases tire wear, reduces fuel efficiency, and can negatively impact your car’s handling and braking. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate to the recommended levels to protect your tires and ensure a safer ride.
Neglecting to wash your car
Skipping car washes allows dirt, salt, and grime to accumulate on the paint and undercarriage, leading to rust and corrosion. Wash your car regularly, including the underside, to keep it looking good and prevent costly repairs.
Skipping routine car maintenance
Neglecting maintenance harms your car. Follow the service schedule for oil changes, fluid levels, and tire rotations to keep it in top shape.
Finally, ensure your Mapfre auto insurance policy is up to date by contacting an independent agent in your state. And if you are not a Mapfre customer yet, you can always get a fast, free car insurance quote to get outstanding coverage at a great price.
