Auto maintenance tips that will extend the life of your car, saving you money
We applaud delivery drivers for working on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. Your service is essential, playing a vital role in keeping people safe by delivering necessary supplies and comfort goods. When you drive for a living, it’s critical to keep your car in top-notch condition. To help keep your vehicle out of the shop, make your job more comfortable, and save you money, we’ve compiled a list of auto care organization and maintenance tips.
Your Car Needs Weekly Upkeep
All vehicles require regularly scheduled maintenance, but upkeep is more crucial when you pack on the miles. Gridwise’s list of weekly auto care recommendations for rideshare and delivery drivers includes:
- Checking the condition and function of your windshield wiper blades
- Examining your windshield wiper fluid level, ensuring it is half full
- Routinely checking your tire pressure
- Examining your tires for scuffs and punctures
- Inspecting your brake lights and headlights
- Checking your oil level weekly
- Looking out for dashboard warning lights and leaking fluids
Routine Vehicle Maintenance Saves You Money
Independent contractors are busy people, and getting your car checked out can seem like something you can delay. But there are consequences to delaying necessary checkups. By keeping up with recommended maintenance, you’ll save money in the long term. Kelley Blue Book’s car maintenance guide says that vehicles should be inspected every 12 months at the least, and car owners should always follow the recommendations found in their owner’s manual. Read this piece for a list of monthly and yearly preventative maintenance tasks to boost the lifespan and performance of your vehicle.
Ways to Save Money at the Gas Pump
When you’ve got deliveries to make, it’s hard to focus on anything but the task at hand—even things like driving more economically. Before you overspend on fuel, give Consumer Reports’ tips for getting the most out of a tank of gas a read. Helpful pointers such as info on apps and websites like GasBuddy, which helps you find the cheapest gas stations near you, will make your tank last longer. Saving on fuel isn’t just about gas prices, though. The article shares insight into how obeying the speed limit, avoiding hard acceleration and braking when possible, and skipping premium gas (unless your specific vehicle make and model requires it) can also help.
How to Make Your Drive More Comfortable
When your workplace is your car, you spend a lot of time on the road, so making your ride as comfortable as possible is essential. Your tires, wheels, and suspension all affect your ride quality, but automobile accessories make a difference too. If your vehicle is not equipped with good lumbar support, consider purchasing a lumbar support pillow. Can you never seem to find what you need? This piece from Popular Mechanics shares their picks for the best car organizers to keep your snacks and electronics more tidy and secure. If you’re an experienced delivery driver, you already have a good phone charger, extra phone battery, and phone mount. But do you keep your automobile stocked with other convenience tools that make your job easier? Read our post on “7 Things Every Delivery Driver Needs in Their Vehicle” to learn more about the advantages of a well-outfitted vehicle interior.