Engine: The key part of a car is the car engine. Inspect the engine well for ensure proper functioning of all the engine components. If any component needs to be replaced, replace it immediately. Also check the engine oil once in every two weeks. If the level is low, add oil to the tank and make sure that you use the oil as recommended by the car manufacturer.

Tires: Check the tires for uneven wear and appropriate air-pressure. Any kind of wear or cut on the surface of the tire may cause it to burst. Air pressure is also something that should regularly checked, if your vehicle does not have a built in monitor. Low tire pressure can cause higher fuel cost, as well as unsafe conditions.

Battery: The car battery must also be maintained. It is a car component that generates energy to the car electronics and other high-end technologies in the car. It is linked with various components in the car through electric cables. Visually inspect these cables and also inspect the battery for corrosion. Most of the significant car components like the dash lights, taillights, headlights, brake lights, and turn signals work on electric power. Make sure that all these are in proper working condition. If any of these lights are not working properly, it may lead to an accident.

Wipers: Check the condition and working of the windshield wipers to ensure that there are no cracks in the wiper. Replace the wiper blade if required. No one wants to get stuck in a rain storm and have our wipers fail.

Driving style and habit also influences the condition of your car. To keep your car in a well-maintained condition, it is also important to follow good driving methods. Limit abrupt braking and acceleration to a minimum.

The first thing to know is that eliminating scratches involves two things: the paint and the clearcoat layer atop the paint. While clearcoats keep cars looking better longer, they can magnify scratches. There are two directions you can take when it comes to a scratch:to hide them, or to remove them. You can polish over them and fill in the scratch — the problem with that is the first wash wipes the polish out of the grooves. If you opt for removal, the only way to do it is to lower the level of the paint surrounding the scratch to the depth of the bottom of the scratch, until the area is flat and smooth.

Here is are some general figures of what to expect to pay to restore your vehicle to a new-like paint job.  Light scratches done with self repair will range between $25 and $75. Light to medium scratches that must be fixed at an auto body shop could be as low as $50, but as high as a few hundred dollars. Lastly, deep scratches requiring repainting body panel can cost $500 and up.

Tire pressures and tread conditions are even more critical for low-profile, stiff-sidewall, high-performance tires. With these vehicles the tires are considered a component of the suspension system. High-performance tires greatly contribute to the car’s handling and grip, offer increased road feel and feedback, and allow higher cornering speeds and more aggressive turn entry, among other things. But improper tire maintenance can quickly relegate all of these fun-to-drive characteristics to the low-performance category. Regular rotation of your tires will also help prevent irregular and premature wear. Proper tire pressure and alignment will keep your vehicle safe.

There are many costs that come along with owning a vehicle that we have no control over: these include things such as fuel, repairs and insurance rates.  But there is one factor that can help keep the cost of owning a vehicle less expensive: making your car last longer and maintaining its value. There are ways to keep your current car running great and looking sharp.  Here are some tips to do this:

Regular Checkups: Finding a repair shop and mechanic you trust helps extend the life of your vehicle, as you are more likely to take it in for proper tune ups if you feel comfortable at the shop. A good mechanic will also get to know your car and look over it the same way every time.

Exterior Care:  Taking care of the exterior of your car by regularly washing and waxing it is very important. The interior should be regularly cleaned too.  Appearance of a vehicle is just as important as its mecancial aspects.

Drive Efficiently: The way you drive has an effect on how long your car — and your gas — will last. This means avoiding revving the engine out of a stop and slamming on the brakes every time you come to a light. If you gain good driving habits you will save wear and tear, and also fuel.

Keep it Covered: If possible, keep your car in a garage, carport, or cover.  The sun can do damage over time and things such as tree sap on your vehicle can damage the paint.

Tire Pressure: Correct inflation pressure is key for safety, good fuel consumption, and avoiding damage to the car.  It is easy and cost very little to check the pressure and add air if necessary.

Filters and Oil: The car’s oil and oil filter should be checked and changed on a regular basis.  Other fluids and filters also need regular maintenance. Changing your air filter helps your car breathe easier and the engine last longer.

The most expensive cost of owning a vehicle is having to buy a new one.  To avoid this, spend some time inspecting your car every now and then. Check to see if the tires are wearing unevenly. Open the hood and check out the hoses. Make sure all the lights are working. The few minutes it takes are worth it. Keeping your car maintained will not only make it last longer but also will make it much more pleasant to drive — which will make you want to take better care of it. Taking care of your car will also increase the resale value – just another added bonus.