Exciting though it can obviously be to buy a car, the feel-good factor could dissipate if you find that the vehicle doesn’t quite clock up the mileage with you that you had expected. This could too easily happen if, for example, you bought the car used.

Nonetheless, you shouldn’t be too quick to rule out that you are unwittingly ageing your car prematurely due to how you drive and look after it. Be careful to do all of the following…

Change Filters Regularly

This refers to your car’s oil filter and air filter, both of which are vulnerable to accumulated clogging. You might be perfectly capable of replacing those filters yourself, given the relative simplicity of the job.

Make a Habit of Driving Smoothly 

Of course, you could find yourself in some situations where you need to brake suddenly. However, the more often you aggressively hit the pedals, the more wear you will inflict upon your vehicle and the more fuel it could end up using.

For this reason, you should practice looking well ahead when driving. That way, if you do have to brake, you can hopefully do so more smoothly than abruptly.

Replenish the Car’s Fluids Regularly 

Once every two weeks, get your car onto level ground before opening the bonnet so that you can check the amounts of engine oil and car lubricants in the vehicle.

After removing the dipstick (if it has one, some cars monitor the oil level electronically, often the user still needs to initiate the procedure), wipe it before dipping it back into the oil. That way, you will be able to look at the dipstick again to see whether the oil level is where you want it: between the minimum and maximum markers.

Check the Tyres

You should do this roughly once a week — as, otherwise, under-inflated tyres could go unnoticed and even risk your life. These tyres need to be kept topped up to the pressures recommended in your car’s handbook.

Have the Car’s Engine Tuned by a Professional

You might have heard of ECU tuning, which involves adjusting a car’s electronic control unit (yes, the ECU) to enhance the engine’s performance. However, though this kind of tuning can increase the engine’s lifespan, you should make sure this tuning is done properly.

For this reason, you could seriously consider getting in touch with our NZ performance tuning company Auto Upgrades if you are based in the Auckland area. You can ask us directly about our ECU tuning expertise by phoning us on (021) 0584642.