The Long Road to Ruin: Common Sense Car Habits to Avoid

When it comes to taking care of our vehicles, many of us are guilty of developing bad habits that can lead to a shorter lifespan for our cars. In this article, we'll explore some common mistakes people make and provide tips on how to avoid them.

Riding the Brake

One of the most common mistakes drivers make is riding the brake while driving uphill or in heavy traffic. This may seem like an easy way to control your speed, but it can actually cause more harm than good. When you ride the brake for extended periods, you're putting excessive wear on your brake pads and potentially damaging other components such as your transmission and suspension.

Instead of riding the brake, try using the accelerator and then letting off gradually to maintain a steady speed. This will help reduce wear on your brakes and prolong their lifespan.

Not Coming to a Complete Stop

Another common mistake is not coming to a complete stop before shifting into drive or reverse. When you shift without stopping, you're putting unnecessary stress on your transmission's gears and potentially causing premature wear.

To avoid this, make sure to come to a complete stop before shifting gears. This will help reduce the strain on your transmission and keep it running smoothly for years to come.

Not Using the Parking Brake

When parking on an incline or uneven ground, many of us forget to engage the parking brake. This can cause your car to roll or slide, potentially damaging other vehicles or structures in its path.

To avoid this, make sure to use the parking brake whenever you park your car. You can also consider using chocks or wheel blocks to secure your vehicle and prevent it from rolling.

In conclusion, developing bad habits when driving can lead to a shorter lifespan for your car and potentially cause damage to other components such as your transmission and suspension. By avoiding common mistakes like riding the brake, not coming to a complete stop, and not using the parking brake, you can help keep your vehicle running smoothly and prolong its lifespan.

Remember, taking care of your car is important for both your safety and your wallet. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your car runs well for years to come and keeps you on the road where you need to be.

Long road to ruin car