5 Simple Car Maintenance Habits from a Mechanic You'll Wish You Knew Sooner

Hey there, fellow car owners! It’s your neighborhood mechanic here, and today I’m sharing some straightforward, everyday habits that can seriously extend the life of your vehicle (and your wallet).

1. Keep That Gas Tank Above E

You know that little game you play where you push your gas tank to its absolute limit? Turns out, you're actually harming your fuel pump. When you consistently drive with your gas tank near empty, your fuel pump is more exposed, making it work harder and wear faster. The solution? Keep at least a quarter tank filled whenever possible.

2. Regular Tire Pressure Checks

Underinflated tires aren’t just bad for gas mileage—they put unnecessary stress on your suspension and steering systems. A monthly tire pressure check can save you from expensive repairs later and even improve your fuel efficiency.

3. Wipe Your Wipers

Here’s a quick habit: Clean your windshield wiper blades with a cloth once a month. Debris builds up and can scratch your windshield or impair visibility. A 60-second wipe-down can significantly extend wiper blade life.

4. Skip the Long Warm-up

Ever heard that your car needs a lengthy warm-up during cold months? Good news: it doesn't! Modern cars rarely require more than 30 seconds to a minute of idling, even on chilly mornings. In fact, extended idling wastes fuel and can actually increase engine wear. So save your gas (and your time) and drive gently for the first few minutes instead.

5. Engage the Parking Brake on Hills

Parking on a hill? Always engage your parking brake before shifting into Park. Without it, your transmission takes on unnecessary strain by holding the entire weight of your car. For my friends tackling mountainous terrain (looking at you, Utah and Colorado), think of this as giving your car a much-needed break (pun definitely intended).

Simple habits matter. Small daily actions like these not only keep your car running smoothly but can save significant time, hassle, and money in the long run.

Have more car questions or maintenance secrets of your own? Let’s hear 'em!

Stay safe on the roads!

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