Driver Habits That Increase Unnecessary Wear and Tear on Cars

As a seasoned SEOer specializing in Google's standards, it's imperative to guide readers to maintain their vehicles' condition to the best possible state. Understanding and addressing common driver habits that increase wear and tear on leased vehicles is crucial in ensuring both safety and maximizing the value of your ride. This article dives into these habits and provides actionable steps to avoid unnecessary damage.

Common Driver Habits Increasing Unnecessary Wear and Tear

One of the major factors regarding your leased vehicle is wear and tear. At the end of your lease, the condition of the vehicle will play a significant role in whether you decide to purchase or return it. In some cases, the lessee knows they won’t purchase but the damage could be extensive, making a purchase the better option. This situation can be avoided by keeping your lease in the best condition possible.

Avoid Short Runs

It might seem counterintuitive, but taking a short drive can be more damaging than a longer one. Engines require time for the oil to reach optimal temperatures, where it can burn off all moisture. Short runs prevent this, causing buildup of gunk in the engine. If most of your drives are shorter than 20 minutes or at slow speeds, this is particularly relevant. For example, driving through bumper-to-bumper traffic can do more damage than expected.

In cases where short drives are unavoidable, frequently changing your oil is essential. Consult your owner's manual for the “severe usage” section and follow the recommended schedule. Changes in driving routines can be challenging, especially in everyday life, but they will pay off in the long run.

Use Your Parking Brake Correctly

If you drive in hilly areas, and are often parking on inclined roads, using your parking brake correctly can greatly reduce wear on the transmission. To use the parking brake effectively, engage it while still in drive, apply the brake pedal, pull the emergency brake, and then put the vehicle into park. This prevents the transmission from bearing the weight of the vehicle, which can cause damage over time.

On your daily commute, keep this in mind to significantly reduce wear on the transmission, which can be the most expensive part to replace if necessary.

Be Easy on The Gas

Aggressive driving, such as frequent acceleration and hard braking, significantly increases wear on the vehicle. Even minor taps on the gas pedal and sudden stops can lead to unnecessary brake wear. Brake systems are designed to last, but unnecessary use can strain them. By being gentle on the gas and maintaining smooth accelerations, you can extend the life of your vehicle.

Regularly check your tire pressure and alignment, and avoid driving on rough roads or sharp turns unless absolutely necessary. These small adjustments can make a significant difference in the life of your car.

Stop and Start Driving

Merely driving in stop-and-go traffic can put immense stress on your vehicle. Engines and transmissions are designed for consistent, long-term use, rather than frequent starts and stops. This results in excessive heat and poor lubrication, leading to increased wear and tear.

Wherever possible, take the highway instead of navigating through residential areas with stoplights and traffic. The longer, more consistent drive is always better, allowing the engine to warm up properly and reducing the strain on your transmission.

Warm Up Your Vehicle

Warming up your vehicle before driving can prevent costly maintenance issues down the line. Cold engines don't perform as well and require more energy to start and run. Experts recommend allowing your vehicle to warm up for 30 to 45 seconds, and up to 60 to 90 seconds in cold weather, to help the engine and transmission reach their normal operating temperature.

Idling for too long is a waste of fuel. Wait until the vehicle has reached its normal running temperature before accelerating. Proper warm-up can protect your engine and transmission from severe damage.

Avoid Collisions

Avoiding collisions is the most critical aspect of protecting your vehicle. Safe driving habits, such as refraining from texting while driving, following traffic rules, and paying close attention to your surroundings, are key. Minor collisions with curbs and bumped corners over time can accumulate and cause significant damage. Investing in a rubber bumper cover can protect your vehicle from dents and dings caused by parallel parking in urban areas.

Treat Your Vehicle with Care

In the end, everything comes down to proper care. Even though you are leasing the vehicle, you are responsible for its condition. This responsibility extends throughout the lease period. Ensuring safety, adhering to maintenance schedules, and treating your vehicle with care will contribute to its longevity and value. By following these tips, you can avoid unnecessary wear and tear, ensuring a smooth and safe ride for as long as possible.