When you first started driving, everything you did was with care. You followed the rules. Paid attention to every detail.
You were aware.
Then it became routine. Mechanical. You drive without thinking. It comes naturally – you have so much else on your mind.
This is when bad driving habits are formed. This is when you start doing things that can take its toll on how well your car operates.
It can also shorten the life of your car.
Have you found yourself doing any of these:
Shifting Gears to Reduce Speed
Do you have a habit of downshifting abruptly to slow down your vehicle? While it works, this practice can strain your transmission and clutch unnecessarily. Instead, opt for gradually reducing your speed by easing off the accelerator and applying gentle pressure to the brakes. This smooth transition benefits your car’s mechanical components and contributes to a safer and more comfortable driving experience.
Resting Your Hand on the Gear Shift While Driving
Resting your hand on the gear shift may seem like a harmless habit, but it can lead to premature wear of the transmission’s synchronizer and bushings. The weight of your hand can cause unnecessary pressure on these delicate components, resulting in increased friction and potential damage over time. You were taught to keep your hands on the steering wheel in driver’s ed – it’s good advice to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your transmission.
Flooring the Accelerator
The exhilarating feeling of accelerating rapidly might be tempting, but constantly flooring the accelerator can take a toll on your car’s engine and fuel consumption. This habit places excessive stress on various engine components, such as pistons, valves, and fuel injectors. Aggressive acceleration also burns more fuel, negatively impacting your car’s overall efficiency. Gradual and smooth acceleration is gentler on your vehicle and helps conserve fuel.
Overloading Your Vehicle
Whether it’s stuffing your trunk to the brim or overloading your roof with heavy cargo, exceeding your car’s recommended weight capacity is a surefire way to shorten its lifespan. Overloading puts excessive strain on the suspension, brakes, and drivetrain, compromising their integrity and leading to premature wear and tear. Always be mindful of your car’s weight limits and distribute the load evenly to maintain optimal performance and safety.
Shifting from Drive to Reverse Before Stopping
Many of us have the habit of quickly shifting from “Drive” to “Reverse” before coming to a complete stop. This habit significantly stresses the transmission, causing unnecessary wear on the gears, clutches, and other components. Allow your vehicle to come to a complete stop before changing gears to preserve the health of your transmission and ensure a smooth driving experience.
Hitting Potholes and Speed Bumps Without Slowing
Potholes and speed bumps can wreak havoc on your car’s suspension system if you don’t slow down. Slamming into these road hazards at high speeds can cause your suspension components to compress and extend beyond their normal range, leading to damage or even failure. Practice caution by slowing down and maneuvering carefully over bumps and potholes to protect your vehicle’s suspension and avoid costly repairs.
Running the Tank Low on Fuel
Running your fuel tank low on a regular basis can have adverse effects on your car’s fuel system. When the fuel level is low, the fuel pump is more likely to draw in debris and contaminants that settle at the bottom of the tank. This can clog the fuel filter, reduce fuel efficiency, and even damage the fuel pump itself. To prevent these issues, make it a habit to refill your tank before it reaches critically low levels.
Ignoring Warning Lights
Modern cars are equipped with sophisticated warning systems that alert us to potential issues. However, ignoring these warning lights is a common habit that can lead to severe damage to your vehicle. Whether it’s the check engine light, oil pressure warning, or any other indicator, never ignore them. Addressing the underlying problem promptly can prevent further damage and ensure your car’s longevity.
Revving the Engine When Cold
On cold mornings, be gentle on your car’s engine. Modern engines are designed to warm up efficiently, and excessive revving can result in increased engine wear and poor fuel efficiency. Instead, allow your engine to warm up naturally by idling for a minute or two before driving gently. This allows the oil to circulate and properly lubricate the engine components, increasing longevity.
Slamming on the Brakes
When faced with sudden stops or emergencies, it’s only natural to slam on the brakes instinctively. However, this habit not only poses a safety risk but also wears out your brake pads and discs prematurely. Abrupt braking generates excessive heat and puts immense stress on the braking system. Train yourself to brake smoothly, allowing the vehicle’s weight to shift gradually, thus reducing strain on the braking components.
Braking Down a Hill
Descending a steep hill can be a nerve-wracking experience, leading some drivers to rely solely on the brakes to control their speed. Continuous braking while going downhill causes the brake pads to overheat, leading to reduced braking efficiency and potential brake fade. Occasional braking this way might not be a big deal, but it’s a bigger issue if you regularly head down hills along the Front Range. Instead, engage a lower gear or use engine braking to control your speed, reducing the strain on your braking system and maintaining its effectiveness.
Not Following the Service Schedule
Your car’s service schedule exists for a reason; neglecting it can have severe consequences. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid top-ups, ensures your vehicle operates at its best. Skipping or delaying these essential services can lead to engine damage, decreased fuel efficiency, and a host of other issues that could have been prevented. Stick to your car’s recommended service schedule to extend its lifespan and enjoy trouble-free driving.
Change your driving habits
Do you see yourself in any of these? It’s not too late to change.
By avoiding these driving habits, you can significantly prolong the life of your car and minimize the likelihood of expensive repairs. Just a few simple changes will ensure that your car serves you reliably for many years to come.