Everyone has a style in which they drive their car; some people may drive at a steady pace while others drive like a bat straight out of hell. The way in which you handle your car when driving can damage your car and burn a hole in your wallet. Here are the six driving habits that can cause your car to depreciate quicker.
1. Dragging your brakes when driving downhill
The one thing that will burn your brake pads and disk quicker than anything is dragging your brakes when you are driving downhill. You can kiss your budget goodbye when you do this as this adds unnecessary expenses for having to replace your brake pads more frequently. It is definitely time to kill this bad habit before it kills your budget. What you can do is apply a light braking when you need to, releasing it on occasion to allow them to cool down.
2. Revving your engine
Your engine is the heart of your vehicle and a costly organ to replace. On average an engine can cost you anything between $1,000-$4,000. Revving your engine before its properly warm to allow the oil to reach all needed parts before driving off, especially on colder days, you could strain and possibly damage your engine which can cause your engine to deteriorate prematurely.
3. Overload
There may be no visible strain as you stack your car as though it were a mini storage center when you off for a weekend away or taking the children to school with all their sports equipment, but overloading your car can affect your car. You can also be slapped with a fine of $200-$400 for overloading your car.
It is important that you do not exceed the maximum load weight stipulated in the manual of your car as this puts more strain on your brakes, suspension, and fuel economy. If you are in need of more space, you may consider taking out a car loan to help you purchase a new or used car that offers adequate space. You can also consider carrying things that you only need to travel lighter.
4. Ignoring warning lights
When your car speaks through your dashboard it pays to listen. There are various reasons why your dashboard will flare up such as; system failures, service reminders, or important warnings that your car is on the verge of breaking down. Paying attention to this notification can save you many down the road. It can also help you spot minor problems before they flare up.
5. Messing the wheel alignment
Messing your cars wheel alignment along with your balance can wear out your tyres and suspension quicker. This could also affect your driving in bad weather as this will prevent little to no control of the vehicle.
6. Skipping service day
Servicing your car may not be most people’s cup of tea, but skipping it altogether could end up costing you more. This part of owning a car basically makes sure that all parts of your car are working and prevent extreme deterioration or damage.