Do these bad driving habits and you will destroy your beloved car

It is imperative to keep cars in good running condition, but sometimes it’s easier said than done. Lacking due diligence in maintaining your car can result in some pretty catastrophic consequences. Philkotse.com will help you to find out plenty of things you do (or don’t do) that can really shorten the operational life of your car. 

1. How to realize that your car is going on a bad start

Not many are aware of proper car maintenance and just drive their cars into the ground; think cabbies who don’t own the very cabs they drive, and so couldn’t really care less about proper upkeep. It’s a shame really, since owning a car is a privilege that many wish to have, too.

Cars cost money especially in terms of maintenance, but some argue that cars deserve their own share of TLC to keep them in good running condition for as long as possible. There are several reasons why this isn’t always followed: 

Some car owners are not so keen to know what will keep cars in good running condition or aren’t really concerned whatever happens to the car.

Generally, the best advice is ignored, which means trouble at the outset. Those who have drivers will usually relegate the responsibility of maintaining the car to them; these owners will not be used to taking care of their own car, not even to change a busted light bulb!

Relevant repairs are not done on time, leaving the car in a progressively worse condition

These are just some of the things that can annihilate any car within a short time. But, we’ve got to go further for an in-depth look at what not to do! For the sake of curiosity or argument; it’s time to find out!

>>> Read more: 8 signs showing that your car is about to die.

2. The A-list of what not to do, to keep cars in condition

Now, here is the rogues' gallery of what not to do to your car, if you want to maintain your ride in a good and presentable condition. Do all these, and you’ll likely destroy a car faster than the elements combined. And remember to avoid driving when these problems crop up:

The following is sure to compromise the life of your battery 

First, you need to switch on the electronic accessories every time the car is parked, which taxes the battery and may lead to eventual battery replacement. Next, add more than the intended load, which affects the performance of the battery, the alternator, and the entire electrical system in general.

You need to be fully aware of car battery

Finally, you don't need to check the battery terminals or cleaning them periodically. The terminals can have scales or rust forming, which will compromise the efficient delivery of electrical power.

Bad driving habits that can damage the under-chassis

From the beginning, please remember to avoid potholes when driving can damage the cars under chassis; this is especially true for vehicles that are not equipped with heavy-duty suspension. Then, let the fuel level drop to one-fourth will cause the fuel pump to suck in dirt and other sediments into the fuel system.

Bad driving habits that can damage the under-chassis

Ultimately, let's drive with less than the recommended tire pressure, which can cause increased stress on the suspension components, apart from making the car less fuel-efficient.  

>>>  Relevant article: 3 Bad Driving Habits That Destroy Your Car’s Suspension.

Modifying the ECU is bound to cause problems and will cost quite a lot to replace

The first thing you need to do is to modify the ECU can damage the programs running the car. Following is to mess with an ECU could damage programs that manage engine combustion and other vital functions.

The first thing you need to do is to modify the ECU can damage the programs running the car

Not less importantly, never modify or change anything, or do aftermarket modifications unless it’s with a competent shop, and even then, not while the warranty is in force. A damaged ECU can immobilize and prevent the car from starting, necessitating the use of a tow truck.

>>> Worth reading: Most common car ECU problems & How to fix them.

Suspension upgrades can damage the car unless performance parts are used

You should never cut the coil spring just to lower the car body; this will place an unnecessary amount of stress on the car’s suspension components. If the under-chassis is too low, it can be difficult to go over humps without scraping, leading to damage.

All fluids must be at the optimum level to keep the car working well

Fluids like brake and automatic transmission fluids need to be topped up. If these fall below ideal levels, car braking will not be as efficient and AT transmission will not be very smooth, due to damage from the planetary gears.

If these fall below ideal levels, car braking will not be as efficient and AT transmission will not be very smooth

Moreover, make use of the radiator and the coolant reservoir have the right level of coolant. Check if the battery water level is enough in non-maintenance free car batteries and remember to check the oil level, or the engine will knock without lubrication!

All the belts and moving tensioners and pulleys must be in good condition and make no loud sounds when running

All lose and noisy fan belts should be replaced to keep the alternator and AC compressor working fine. Usually, loose bearings will need replacement and tightening at the tensioner and pulley to keep it running fine.

All the belts and moving tensioners and pulleys must be in good condition and make no loud sounds when running

You need to check the timing belt if it needs replacement as well; check the user’s manual for the recommended intervals by the manufacturer.

If the radiator has problems with overheating, these can affect other components

When overheating does happen, check for leaks in the hoses. Sometimes the water pump goes dead or is in need of repairs to recirculate water in the engine. If there is a clog or hole in the radiator; have it repaired to prevent overheating.

If the radiator has problems with overheating, these can affect other components

>>> You might concern: 6 Steps to Fix Car Radiator.

If you insist on driving the car despite the presence of these warning signs, then you’ll certainly deserve what you’ll get. Overall, the best way to annihilate any car is to ignore these mistakes, through inaction and carelessness.

If you don’t want to encounter costly repair bills to get your car back in working order again, just remember that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!

Lastly, don't forget to visit Philkotse.com regularly for more useful tips & advice on car maintenance.