Unless you have something rare or exotic in the garage, your car's value will depreciate over time. The wear and tear it faces on the road make repairs and maintenance necessary to keep it working well. Don't ignore the warning signs – staying on top of maintenance will increase the lifespan of your car. These four tips can help your car last as long as possible.
Keep your car clean: Washing your car makes it look great, and helps increase it's lifespan, too.
- Wash your car frequently. It's a good idea to wash it at least once a month. This removes grime which can damage the paint.
- Don't forget the underbody. Shiny paint looks nice, but the underside of your car is exposed to moisture, mud, road salt, and debris. Use a pressure washer to clean as much of that off as possible to prevent rust and corrosion.
- Make sure carpets are clean and dry. Damp carpets can seep water onto the frame, leading to rust and corrosion. Rubber floor mats could be a good investment if you live in a wet climate.
Repair any body damage: Sometimes we think that fixing minor body damage is more trouble than it's worth. However, leaving damage unrepaired can have detrimental results in the long term.
- Fix small dents and dings. These imperfections are prone to rust and corrosion. Some states won't allow a vehicle to pass a registration inspection if there are rust holes on the body. Depending on the extent of the rust you may be able to fix it yourself.
- Touch up paint scratches. Car paint acts as a protective barrier for the sheetmetal underneath. Any scratch in the paint allows moisture to reach the metal, which will result in rust. If you spot a new scratch in your car's paint, touch it up right away.