Should I keep my car until it breaks down? (5 Questions Answered!)

In this blog, we walk the bumpy road of deciding when to say goodbye to your car, exploring the financial pitfalls, safety twists and emotional twists that shape this important choice.

What are some of the ways to keep my car in good condition?

• Stick to the service schedule: Follow your car’s recommended maintenance intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, and other routine checks.
• Check fluids regularly: Monitor important fluids like engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. Top them up or change them as needed according to the manual.
• Mind tire pressure: Maintain proper tire pressure for optimal fuel efficiency, performance, and safety. Check and adjust pressure at least once a month, including the spare.
• Drive gently: Avoid harsh acceleration, braking, and cornering. Smooth driving reduces wear and tear on engine, brakes, and tires.
• Listen for unusual noises: Be alert to any strange sounds coming from the engine, suspension, or brakes. Address them promptly before they become bigger problems.
• Keep it clean: Wash your car regularly to remove dirt, grime, and salt that can cause rust and paint damage. Vacuum and clean the interior to prevent mildew and maintain hygiene.
• Protect from the elements: Park in a garage or covered area whenever possible to shield your car from sun, rain, and snow.
• Avoid overloading: Don’t exceed your car’s weight capacity to prevent strain on the engine and suspension.
• Use quality parts: When replacing components, stick to high-quality parts recommended by the manufacturer or a trusted mechanic.
• DIY or seek professional help: Depending on your skill level and comfort, you can handle some basic maintenance tasks yourself. For complex repairs, seek a qualified mechanic.

Can a car dealer keep my car because I wrecked their loaner and I have no insurance?

The damage and your loaner agreement will determine the dealer’s options, even though they are not legally permitted to take your car away as collateral. They will probably want payment for the repairs, and if you don’t have insurance, you’ll be responsible for the whole cost. Anticipate lawsuits, collection efforts, and possible damage reports that could impact your insurance rates and credit in the future. Your best chance to lessen the consequences is to own up, communicate, and look into payment options, even if they need to be made in installments.

How would I keep my car outdoors for a year and only use it every few months or so?

Leaving your car outdoors for a year with infrequent use requires thorough preparation to avoid unpleasant surprises later:

Protection:

• Cover: Invest in a high-quality, weatherproof car cover that fits snugly. Choose breathable materials to prevent moisture build-up.
• Parking location: Park on level, well-drained ground, away from trees and falling debris. Avoid direct sunlight if possible.

Maintenance:

• Interior: Clean thoroughly and leave windows slightly cracked open for ventilation. Place moisture absorbers like cat litter boxes (unscented) to prevent mustiness.
• Exterior: Wash and wax the car to protect the paint from sun and weather. Check and inflate tires to the recommended pressure.
• Engine and Battery: Fill the gas tank to prevent condensation. Disconnect the battery if the car won’t be used for extended periods (3+ months).
• Fluids: Check and top up engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid.

Prevention:

• Rodents: Place rodent deterrents like peppermint oil sachets or ultrasonic devices to prevent nesting.
• Tires: To avoid flat spots, consider jacking up the car slightly or rotating the tires every few months.
• Brakes: Engage the parking brake lightly and apply wheel chocks to prevent unintended movement.

Regular Checks:

• Start the engine and run it for a few minutes every month to circulate fluids and prevent battery drain.
• Briefly drive the car at moderate speeds if possible to prevent brake rotors from rusting.

Bonus: Consider using fuel stabilizers and engine fogging oils for extra protection when storing for longer periods.

Remember, even with these precautions, occasional wear and tear is inevitable. Be prepared for potential maintenance needs when you get back to using your car regularly.

Do you keep your car until it stops working?

Recall that it can be costly and dangerous to keep an automobile until it breaks down. In the long term, it can occasionally be advantageous to replace a proactive option with one that is more dependable and effective.

It’s up to you to decide in the end. Pick the route that will maximize your driving enjoyment, safety requirements, and financial constraints!