Car repair and maintenance can put a strain on both a senior’s budget and back. With some smart and simple preventive care, you can reduce automotive troubles down the line.
Tread and Tire Pressure
The last thing any senior needs is a blown out tire while driving. Avoid this dangerous scenario by checking the tread on your tires and the air pressure once a month. Tires with little or no tread and that are showing threads are unsafe and should be replaced immediately. For the recommended air pressure for your tires, do not go by the numbers on the sidewall of the tires. Instead, refer to the owner’s manual or sticker on the driver’s side door. Not only does proper air pressure decrease the likelihood of a blowout, but it increases your car’s gas mileage, and gives your vehicle better traction.
Change the Oil
The truth is that oil changes take time and money. However, if this task is not done routinely, then the overall health of your engine can be jeopardized.
When using conventional oil, it’s recommended to change the oil every 3,000 miles. However you can save yourself some work and better protect your investment by using high-quality synthetic motor oil instead. For example, Royal Purple HMX is specifically designed to minimize wear and tear and restore performance in engines with more than 75,000 miles. Instead of the typical oil change once every 3,000 miles, synthetic oil can reduce the frequency to once every 10,000 to 15,000 miles, or once every 12 months, depending on how much your vehicle is used.
For more information on how you can maximize your engine’s longevity and save money, visit www.RoyalPurpleConsumer.com.
Check Lights
Don’t be the one left in the dark. Regularly check your headlights, taillights, turning signals and brake lights. Thousands of accidents a year are the direct result of failed lights. Check your lights by asking a trusted neighbor, friend or family member to walk around your car as you turn the headlights, taillights and turning signals off and on. Also, apply light pressure to the brake to make sure your brake lights are working as well. If a light is out, check the fuses. An easy do-it-yourself replacement can save you time and money.
You don’t have to be a professional mechanic or overextend your budget to increase the lifetime of your car. Some simple proactive and regular care will go a long way in keeping you and your car together, far down the road.
