All aspects of our daily life are still affected by the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic. The Australian government and governments across the globe are still taking measures to curb the spread of this deadly virus, While occasional lockdowns are felt locally, this however does not impede our movement. Despite the majority of time being spent at home, we all still need to go out and travel for basic necessities and other important chores. Owning a dependable vehicle is now more important than ever as they allow us to provide for our families and connect with critical services outside the home. To that end, it is imperative to ensure that your car is always in excellent working condition.
In this post, we have compiled tips on how to care for your car and ways to prepare to go back to normal.
-
Do Not Forget to Run the Engine Regularly
Do not leave your car parked for extended periods. Even when you have nowhere to go, it’s recommended to run the engine for a few minutes. You may also press on the gas pedal a few times to kickstart it. Conducting this routine for five to ten minutes will be beneficial to your car to ensure it works well despite not being able to drive it for a long time. At least once a week, make sure to drive the car around the block. This is especially true for older cars as they are more likely to suffer from mechanical issues when not in use for extended periods.
-
Check the Tire Pressure
To ensure that your tires are still in good condition during a lockdown, it’s best to check the tire pressure regularly. Ideally, tire pressure should not go beyond the normal pressure levels. If you are unsure about ideal tire levels, check your driver’s manual as reference. It is recommended to buy compressors and electric compressors if the tire pressure keeps going below the ideal levels. Make sure to check the brakes after checking the tire pressure.
-
Clean your Car
If your car is parked on a private property, make sure to clean it regularly even when you aren’t planning to use it. Skipping vehicle cleaning can reduce the aesthetic value of your car overtime. It becomes harder to remove dust and dirt when they stick onto your vehicle for extended periods. If your car is parked under a tree, make sure to remove debris, fallen leaves, and bird waste that can damage your vehicle’s paintwork.
-
Do not Forget to Clean the Cabin
It’s easy to forget to clean the interior portion of your car. But did you know that even when you don’t use your car, germs such as bacteria and viruses can still thrive inside the cabin? The last thing that you need is for the cabin to be dirty and unhygienic once you resume using your car. If the cabin starts smelling funny, it’s time to give it a thorough clean. Use professional detergents specifically made for cabin or car interior cleaning. These products are formulated to remove all germs while imparting a clean and fresh scent inside the car. Clean and disinfect high touch points such as the steering wheel and seats. During sunny days, take your car out and open the windows and doors to ensure proper ventilation.
-
Protect your Car from External Stressors
Once cleaned and disinfected, make sure to cover your car’s exterior to protect its paintwork. You can purchase a cover for your specific make and mode line. If you park your car outdoors, it is imperative to protect it not only from the weather but other external stressors, including debris and pollutants.
-
Do Not Forget to Bring your Vehicle to the Mechanic for Maintenance and Servicing Basics
Never overlook professional car servicing and maintenance. If auto mechanic shops in Sydney are closed, you can follow a simple care and maintenance checklist that you can do in the comforts of your own home. This will include checking and inspection of essential car parts such as the brake, suspension, electrical systems, and many more. Once auto mechanic shops open, make sure to bring your car for servicing if it hasn’t been used for a long time.
If your vehicle requires more attention or if you have detected damages that need professional intervention, seek the assistance of a trusted car mechanic in Sydney. If you don’t have one yet, you can visit us here at HP Automotive. We are a reliable car mechanic shop servicing Sydney. We offer a wide range of car services for commercial and residential car owners. We are staffed with expertly trained and skilled auto mechanics that can get the job done in a speedy and professional manner. You can rest assured that your car is in good, capable hands when you come to us for help. Our auto mechanics here at HP follow strict safety protocols for your comfort and peace of mind. To schedule an appointment, you may call our direct line on +61 2 9979 83 72 today.