These Are The Driving Habits That Are Damaging Your Car
The way we drive can have a big impact on how our vehicles perform. Here are driving habits that can do real damage…
Too Much Weight
Most modern vehicles are capable of carrying fairly impressive loads. However, this shouldn’t entail needlessly loading down your car when you don’t need to. Excessive weight can, in the long-term, prematurely wear out drivetrains, suspensions and tyres. If it doesn’t need to be in your vehicle, remove it. A reduced weight will help conserve your fuel, too.
Resting Hand on the Gearstick
Resting your hand on the gearstick seems innocent enough, but it’s a driving habit you’ll want to break. The gearstick connects to a selector fork, which should only make contact with the rotating collar when a gear is changed. Constant contact can lead to premature wear and tear.
Striking Potholes
The UK’s roads are, unfortunately, riddled with potholes and other forms of damage. If you don’t keep your eyes open, you can end up striking them; sometimes at speed or via an awkward angle. Over time, this can seriously harm your car’s suspension system and tyres.
Riding the Clutch
Lots of drivers ‘ride the clutch’, leaving it compressed when it shouldn’t be. Unfortunately, it’s a driving habit with serious consequences. It can lead to serious wear and tear, which often isn’t covered by a vehicle’s warranty. Most models have a footrest, so use that instead.
Late Braking
Late braking is a bad idea for all sorts of reasons. It obviously entails some danger, as you may not end up bringing your vehicle to a stop in time. But it can also wreak havoc on your car’s braking system, all whilst needlessly burning through fuel. Get into the habit of braking gently and in good time.
Neglecting Servicing and Maintenance
It doesn’t matter how you drive, neglecting servicing and maintenance is terrible idea. Whilst it may seem to be expensive and time-consuming, not approaching it properly just means higher bills and more wasted time later down the line. It’s better to get problems recognised, or addressed, early before they become more serious.
Not Keeping on Top of Dirt
Modern vehicles are pretty durable, inside and out. That said, you should still keep your vehicle clean, free of dirt and grime. This will help protect its paintwork and its surfaces. Giving it a thorough and regular clean, inside and out, will also help you maintain its value.
Hitting the Kerb
Hitting the kerb is easy to do if you find yourself parking at the roadside. Generally, it shouldn’t cause immediate problems (unless you make contact at speed). Doing so regularly, however, risks seriously damaging your car’s wheels and tyres. Approach the roadside gently and adjust your side mirror if necessary so you can see what you’re doing.
Increasing Number Of Learner Drivers Want An EV As Their First Car – https://autoserveclub.co.uk/blog/increasing-number-of-learner-drivers-want-an-ev-as-their-first-car/
In the Face Of Rising Fuel Costs, Two-Thirds Of Brits Now Want An EV – https://autoserve.co.uk/motoring-news/in-the-face-of-rising-fuel-costs-two-thirds-of-brits-now-want-an-ev/
