Looking after your car while it stays in park
Is your car spending more time in park than it is in drive? Leaving our cars parked in our driveways can lead to a variety of consequences if not properly looked after. Here are a few tips to keep your car in tip top shape even when it’s not getting used.
Take It For A Drive
One simple and effective way to keep your car in good working order is to take it for a 20-minute drive, once or twice a week, assuming you have adequate insurance in place.i Doing this provides a number of benefits:
- Warms up your tires
- Protects tires from flat spots
- Returns charge to your battery
- Wears surface rust off brake disks
- Keeps fluid moving to ensure proper lubrication
Check Tire Pressure
Leaving your car on the driveway for an extended period of time can lead to low tire pressure, or flat spots. Check your tire pressure to ensure they meet factory specifications. If you don’t have a gauge at home, you can usually find them at a gas station air pump. You can also find the manufacturer’s pressure recommendations on the tires themselves, in your car manual, or on a placard on the inside of the driver’s side door.
Check Tread Depth
While checking tire pressure, you should also check tread depth. An easy way to test your tires tread depth is to take a quarter and place it in the groove of your tires with the caribou facing downwards. If you can see the tip of the caribou’s nose, it means your tread depth is no longer sufficient, and it’s time for a new set of tires.ii If you are unsure of the status of your tires, something doesn’t feel quite right, or have any questions, check with your mechanic.
What If My Car Breaks Down?
If you do need car repairs, or have a routine check-up, check with your local mechanic to see if they’re making service calls to your home. Many body shops are now offering these services to help accommodate their customers. Johnson also offers comprehensive roadside assistance that will bring you and your passengers’ peace of mind. So if you’re ever locked out, in need of a tow, or require mechanical assistance, you can call us and we’ll get you the help you need.
Be Road Ready
While you’re checking on the more technical aspects of your car, take a moment to clear out your glovebox, and give your car a little clean, so when it is time to leave home, your car will feel as good as new.
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