Happy New Year 2021
It’s that time of year again – cue the resolutions! This is when you vow to go Paleo, begin that CrossFit regime, and take up meditating. While you’re feeling ambitious, why not make a few resolutions for your car to help you be a better, safer, smarter driver in 2018? Here are a few to get you started:
Get in Shape.
Let’s face it, getting your body in shape requires some serious commitment. But keeping your car fit and healthy is much easier, especially since you can leave most of the work to trained professionals. So, go ahead and schedule your next maintenance appointment to make sure your fluids are topped off, your tires are properly inflated, and to make any necessary repairs. When your car is performing optimally, it increases efficiency and can give you a smoother, safer, and more economical drive on your way to that grueling 6 am hot yoga class.
Keep it Clean.
Despite the best of intentions to keep your car in pristine condition, life (and all the coffee spills that come with it) happens. The good news is that it only requires a little bit of time and elbow grease to give your car that “fresh off the lot” feel. After clearing out all the trash and non-essentials from the nooks, crannies, and compartments of the interior, remove bulky and/or heavy items from the trunk. Lightening the load actually increases fuel efficiency and performance. Then, when you’re all done with the inside, head to the car wash to give the outside that extra sparkle and shine.
Drive Safe(r).
While cars are becoming safer and more connected, we still need to be mindful to stay present while driving. Along with a number of other startling statistics, the NHTSA reports that approximately 15 percent of injury crashes are distraction-related, so make a promise to yourself (and others) not to text and drive. You can even employ some extra help from one of the new tech-based solutions designed to keep your eyes and attention on the road.
Spend Less.
If you plan on purchasing a new car this year, then doing a bit of research beforehand can help you save big. In fact, TrueCar.com is a great place to start. But if a new car is not in your near future, there are still plenty of ways to keep your vehicle costs in check. For instance, pumping your own gas, driving at safe speeds, bundling your insurance, and keeping your engine tuned can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. Even idling in your car for 10 minutes a day can cost you up to a few dollars per week – go figure!
Hit the road!
The last and possibly best resolution is to get out there and enjoy your car more. Whether you plan to hit that local landmark you’ve always wanted to check out or take off on a spontaneous road trip, the road and 2018 are calling.
