In a context where dealer inventories are low and changing vehicles can be more difficult or more expensive, it is useful and advantageous to take care of your car, van or SUV to extend its life. . This way you save money and even increase the resale value.
Below are seven tips to help your vehicle last longer. Why seven? Well, that’s the lucky number, isn’t it?
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Read the owner’s manual
To properly care for a vehicle, you must first know it well. It starts with the owner’s manual, which contains all the information on the specifics of the model and the manufacturer’s recommendations, particularly with regard to maintenance intervals. Refer to this book as often as possible.
Photo: Unsplash
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Change the oil regularly
Changer l’huile à moteur aux intervalles prescrits par le constructeur permet non seulement d’obtenir un rendement optimal et d’éviter de gaspiller du carburant, mais aussi de prolonger la vie des composantes mécaniques et ainsi de prévenir des réparations coûteuses. Ne négligez pas non plus les autres huiles et liquides du véhicule (transmission, différentiels, freins, servodirection, circuit de refroidissement, etc.).
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Garder le véhicule propre
La rouille et la saleté sont deux des grands ennemis des véhicules, menaçant leur santé à long terme et leur valeur de revente. Un traitement antirouille annuel est idéal. De plus, quelle que soit la saison, un lavage de la carrosserie et un bon rinçage du dessous du véhicule permettent d’éliminer les accumulations de débris, de saletés, de sel et d’autres matières novices (pensons aux excréments d’oiseaux!).
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Protéger contre le soleil et la sécheresse
The sun can discolor and damage interior paint and surfaces over time. It is better to try to park in a sheltered place or in the shade and especially not to wash the vehicle in direct sunlight. In the passenger compartment, leather and plastic do not tolerate prolonged exposure to UV rays and heat, so treat these surfaces from time to time with an appropriate protector.
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Check tire pressure
In addition, they wear out faster and can affect vehicle handling, sometimes with long-term consequences. Check the pressure at least once a month and inflate the tires as needed.
Photo: istock
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Drive smart
Repeated sudden acceleration and braking prematurely wear out vehicle components. This is even truer when it’s cold and the vehicle isn’t warmed up yet. That’s why it’s important to drive smart.
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Avoid short trips and traffic
Short trips that don’t give the vehicle time to warm up and regain its strength precipitate wear and tear. Try to consolidate your exits as much as possible and avoid rush hours, as vehicles also don’t like the back and forth of congested traffic.