7 Maintenance Tips for Smooth Running of Your Old Car

Your car is an extended part of your family, and every car enthusiast understands the importance of proper maintenance. Regular maintenance helps extend your car's lifespan and prevent unexpected expenses, especially if you own a second-hand vehicle. As a responsible car owner, you should be aware of at least these seven essential car maintenance tips. Read on!

Why Used Car Maintenance Matters?

Second-hand cars have wear and tear left by previous owners. Nevertheless, with proper maintenance, such a car is reliable and can last for many years. Such omissions, such as a lack of regular inspections, tend to turn small problems into big ones.

Maintenance secures your investment and gives you peace of mind. It is also used to retain the resale value of your Pre-Owned Car. Regular maintenance will ensure higher fuel efficiency and lower repair costs. Here are the best car maintenance tips to follow:

1. Check and Care for the Battery

A car becomes one of our family members, and it’s our responsibility to take utmost care of it. A battery is a vital part of the car. It supplies the electrical systems with the power needed to start the engine. The following tips can keep your battery healthy:

• Inspect battery terminals regularly for corrosion and ensure tight connections.
• Check the battery charge on a routine basis, especially before long drives.
• Replace the battery immediately if performance declines noticeably.
• Keep the battery surface clean and dry to prevent discharge.
• Ensure the battery is secured properly to avoid vibration damage.

2. Maintain Proper Wheel Pressure and Condition

Tyres directly affect fuel efficiency and passenger safety. Proper tyre care is essential before every ride. Neglecting tyre maintenance can lead to accidents and increased fuel consumption.

• Make a weekly tyre pressure checkup and maintain it at the level recommended by the manufacturer.
• Don’t let them go unused. If you don't use the car regularly, rotate the tyres regularly to ensure even wear.
• Look for any cuts, bulges, or cracks when inspecting tread depth.

3. Monitor and Maintain Fluid Levels

Fluids are the substances that keep the engine and other mechanical parts within a car running smoothly. Inspect their levels periodically and adjust as needed. The important fluids to watch out for are:

• Engine Oil: Essential for cooling and lubrication of the engine
• Coolant: This fluid prevents overheating of the engine
• Transmission and Power Steering fluids: They help keep gear shifts easy and steering smooth.
• Brake fluid: No compromise on this liquid, since it is crucial for safe stopping power

4. Clean or Replace the Cabin Air Filters

When the engine air filter is clogged, it can reduce engine performance and fuel efficiency. At the same time, a dirty cabin air filter affects air quality inside the car.

• Check the engine air filter and make a habit of cleaning it regularly.
• If it’s too dirty and clogged, consider replacing it at least once every year.

5. Check the Suspension System for a Comfortable Ride

To ensure a smooth ride every time, a good suspension system is essential. Especially on Indian roads, a ride without proper suspension can be uncomfortable. This is responsible for the car's stability and provides the driver with better grip. If you find any one of the following signs, it is an indication that the suspension system requires care:

• Excessive bouncing than usual or swaying at low speeds
• Unusual noises during a ride over bumps on the road.

6. Maintain a Clean Interior and Exterior

A clean car not only looks good on the outside, but it also provides a comfortable travel experience for passengers. Even if its cleanliness is maintained, it can withstand rust and wear to a higher standard. Additionally, this can prolong life and protect the internal surfaces. Overall, it preserves the car's resale value.

• Wash the car gently to protect the paint and the metal parts.
• Maintain a clean interior and exterior.

7. Follow the Best Driving Practices

The car’s age is influenced by the way it is handled. A good driver following best driving practices will keep the car in good condition. Hence, follow the points below to reduce the ageing of your car:

• Try to avoid harsh acceleration and sudden braking, and ride with awareness.
• Maintaining a gradual rise in driving speed lessens the burden on the engine, brakes, and suspension.
• Safe driving leads to fewer repairs and gives better fuel economy.

Also Read: Buying a Used Car: Everything You Need to Know

To Conclude

There is no need for a complex process or enormous costs to maintain a used car. With regular checks, servicing, and good driving behaviour, your pre-owned car can last several years. To prevent unnecessary repairs, follow the 7 car maintenance tips outlined in this blog.

A properly maintained car provides good performance, improved fuel economy, and a comfortable ride. Routine maintenance also helps maintain resale value if you want to upgrade.

If you are planning to buy a pre-owned car but financial constraints are holding you back, consider a Pre-Owned Car Loan from Poonawalla Fincorp. We offer financing solutions with quick loan processing, flexible tenures, competitive interest rates and complete transparency. Apply for a loan today and experience a hassle-free car financing journey!

FAQs

How often should I change the engine oil?

It depends on the car model. Refer to the manufacturer's car manual for exact details. Generally, engine oil is changed every 5,000–10,000 km, depending on the vehicle, oil type, and usage.

Should I invest only in high-quality parts for repairs or replacements? Are they really worth it in a pre-owned car?

Yes. Investing in high-quality parts can extend service life and reduce the need for repeated repairs. It may look like an expensive expense; however, it is worth it in the long run.

Should I keep service records?

Yes, definitely. Every car owner should maintain the vehicle's service records, which help with maintenance planning and resale.

Should I only use premium fuel?

Follow the car manufacturer's recommendations. In most cases, it is not necessary to use premium fuel for all car types.

What is the best way to start maintenance of a used car?

It is best practice to begin with a full inspection by a certified mechanic. Then it can be serviced periodically according to the recommended mileage intervals.