06/04/2020
Quarantine Car Tips!
Since many of us haven’t done much driving lately, your car probably has’t been top of mind. But check out these tips on how to keep your car road ready in case it’s needed in a pinch.
1) Battery: Today’s cars are loaded with fun, yet complicated technology. Although they are designed to “sleep” when your vehicle isn’t being used, many of these luxuries can slowly drain your battery over time. It’s important to start your car up and take it for a short drive at least once a week to keep your battery health in check. And contrary to popular belief, simply idling does not have the same replenishing effect as a short drive!
2) Brakes: Lack of use can be harmful to your cars braking system. To work effectively your braking system relies on clean and uncontaminated friction surfaces. Brake surfaces commonly develop a rust film when not used periodically, which can result in poor stopping performance, brake pulsations or even premature brake pad/shoe wear. Did you guess the best preventive measure for this one yet? That’s right! Once again, the answer is just take it for a short drive!
3) Interior: Many of us spend more time inside our vehicles than we do our living rooms, therefore it’s crucial to take care of this space with the same effort. As your car sits there parked, it’s cozy upholstery and that random Macdonald’s bag jammed under the passenger seat become the perfect welcome mat for critters. Mice love nesting in vehicles, where there is usually an ample food supply and protection from the outside elements. I find nests usually deep in the dashboard near the heating system where the insulation from outside temperatures is the best. The best prevention for this one is a little different. Take a little time to check under your seats for any possible food sources or attractants, and give it a quick vacuum. I’ve had some luck using strategically placed dryer sheets as a deterrent as well. Last point on this one- parking in a garage seems to make vehicles even more susceptible to this problem in my experience. If your vehicle is garage kept, check your surroundings for food sources that would attract rodents to the area in which you park. Is the household trash bin nearby? Dog food storage bin in close proximity? Just some things to ponder. 😊
4) Body: This ones not as obvious, but it is equally important for the longevity of your vehicle. When driven regularly, rainwater helps to wash away damaging road salt and debris. Considering we went from treated roads to countrywide closures, there’s a good chance the body or underside of your car still has a coating of road salt, calcium or possibly both which are the number one cause of oxidation and body rust. My best suggestion here (which I suggest every spring) is to take your car through a touch free wash that has an undercarriage rinse. This will rinse away many of the contaminants that would literally take years off your vehicles life!
In short, take your car for a quick drive to a car wash that has a vacuum! 😂
If you’ve made it this far, thank you! And please remember- these suggestions are based on my opinions from my experience. If you have some tips you’d like to share too, drop a comment!
