In the US alone, approximately 69 million vehicles break down every year. To put it in perspective, this is the equivalent of 1 in 3 drivers dealing with serious car issues. And, truth be told, car breakdowns are not only inconvenient, but they also cost the US economy $41b every single year.
The last thing you need when you’re driving is to find yourself stranded on the side of the road with your car refusing to budge. And yet, it is an all-too-common situation for many American car owners. Naturally, the priority when your car breaks down is to reach out to a reliable towing service that can get you and your vehicle back to safety.
But, wouldn’t it be better to avoid the whole drama altogether? Did you know that the USA is one of the countries with the most vehicle breakdowns compared to the population size? It’s time to remediate it with these practical tips to prevent car breakdowns, saving you not only the stress but the cost of a breakdown!
Sticking to the Manufacturer’s Maintenance Schedule
A trouble-free driving experience does not happen by chance. It is the result of caring for your vehicle the way it is written in your car manufacturer’s manual.
What does it include? Typically, you should be considering regular oil changes, fluid checks, and filter replacements. You can refer to the maintenance and servicing schedule for guidance. As a rule of thumb, there are yearly servicing needs and milestone servicing too.
These routine tasks will keep your engine running smoothly, so you can already avoid a lot of unexpected breakdowns.
Annual Check-ups
What is an annual check-up and how does it differ from regular servicing? Let’s put it that way: If you use your car a lot, you want to ensure that your vehicle is still safe to drive. This could be checking your suspensions, your brakes, your tires, etc. Admittedly, by that point, it’s obvious that a trustworthy and experienced mechanic is your best bet to maintain your vehicle.
Don’t be fooled by low-cost offers from new places. You need to research your garage first, and check their reviews. Are they experienced? What do customers think? Working with a reputable garage can save you a lot of money and hassle in the long term.
Teach Yourself Basic Repairs
Let’s clarify this first: You do not need to become a certified mechanic. But having some knowledge of basic car repairs can make a big difference. You can learn how to replace brake pads, change lights, and address minor issues as part of regular maintenance. The good news: There’s plenty of online resources and workshops available that can show you step-by-step instructions.
Park Smart
Did you know that cars parked outdoors are more at risk? If possible, you should consider parking your vehicle inside a garage to protect it from the elements. Alternatively, you can also use a car cover if you can’t park indoors.
Indeed, harsh weather conditions, such as rain, wind and snow, can damage the car body paint. The paint is there to protect the body, so once it’s damaged, rust can settle in.
Hopefully, you know now all the tips you need to avoid issues. Car breakdowns are infuriating and stressful, and that’s why you want to maintain your vehicle.
But, breakdowns are not the only thing that could happen to an unmaintained vehicle. Crashes and collisions are also a significant risk when essential parts, such as brakes or tires, are damaged beyond repair!