Today on the blog we’re sharing 6 pointers to help you become a more organized and responsible driver and vehicle owner. We’re halfway through the first month of the year, but it’s never too late to start a new healthy habit! Here’s some automotive housekeeping tips to keep your car in tip-top shape and help you be the best car owner you can be. Got a tip you think our readers would enjoy? Let us know in the comments!
-
Check and Change Your Oil Regularly.
You should be checking your car’s oil levels monthly, and scheduling routine oil changes at your mechanic (unless you’re doing them yourself!) You should change your oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, but check the levels more frequently than that.
-
Cease Your Penchant for Distracted Driving.
Distracted Driving isn’t just about texting behind the wheel! All sorts of things can take your attention away from the road where it belongs, and in just a moment it can change everything! Make a goal to reduce your desires to pick up your phone, look at an app, post to social media, put on makeup or do your hair, or reach and turn behind you for something.
-
Learn How to Change a Tire.
If you don’t have a membership to AAA or your insurance doesn’t cover roadside assistance, this can be the best “trick” you’ll ever learn as a car owner. Check out this video from Bridgestone Tires for an easy lesson, or ask your local mechanic or car-enthusiast friend to show you how. Remember to engage the parking brake for safety. Make sure you have a spare tire, tire iron, and tire repair kit in your vehicle at all times!
-
Learn How to Jump Start Your Vehicle.
This skill is absolutely vital especially in extreme weather circumstances! The last thing you want to deal with is being stranded due to a faulty or weak/dead battery, and attempting to learn this on the fly in the blazing heat of summer or frigid icy winter. At the very least, remember: Red = Positive, Black = Negative. It’s also a good idea to get a portable car battery charger Here’s an easy video lesson!
-
Reduce Clutter and Keep Your Vehicle Clean.
We’ve all been there! You’re on the road and stop for coffee...only to realise the old one is still in your cupholder. “I’ll throw it away later” you say as you fling it into the abyss of the backseat never to be seen again. Get on out there and tidy up that interior, right now! Throw out your old receipts from the gas station or convenience store, chuck expired gift cards, get rid of those empty coffee cups and half-drank water bottles. Then wipe down and disinfect your car and give it a nice vacuuming! And start of 2023 with a new, positive habit by bringing in a bag of trash with you each time you leave your car.
-
Organize your vehicle’s paperwork in a safe place.
Go through the glove box and center console, and make sure all of your car paperwork is in order. Request duplicate copies of your insurance and registration cards (keep one set in the car, one in your wallet, and one in a lockbox/safe in your home.) Make sure to log and organize your car maintenance records as well; it’s important to know the history of your car care for future reference or when selling your car to a new owner.
