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Car Maintenance Tips for Infrequent Drivers

If you don’t use your car frequently you have to adjust your car maintenance schedule. So when should you perform basic car maintenance? Should you follow the recommended schedule on your manual? Vehicles need proper care to function optimally even if you don’t drive them often. Following the manufacturer’s advice is vital if you want your car to run well over 200,000 miles.
How often do you drive your car?

Just because you don’t use your car often doesn’t mean that regular maintenance isn’t needed. In fact, if most of your driving is for short trips you should follow the “severe use” maintenance schedule. That means it requires frequent servicing. Vehicles are designed to work optimally at high speeds and temperature and for this reason using your car for many short trips is categorized as severe because the engine isn’t warming up properly.

Fill your tank.

If you’re an infrequent driver, it is important to keep your tank full at all times. That will prevent the fuel from contamination due to air condensation in the empty space.

Schedule a drive once or twice a week.

To avoid special maintenance or any start-up procedures, drive your car at least once or twice a week. Make sure that you allow the engine and exhaust system to warm up properly for at least 15-30 minutes of ACTUAL driving (not just idling). That will prevent moisture condensation problems.

Change oil according to severe use maintenance schedule.

If you take frequent short trips, you’re stressing the engine and the fluids. That is why changing oils should be done regularly.

Oil changes should be done at least twice a year because the additives in it wear out. These components prevent the buildup of sludge and moisture that damages the engine. Thus, if your “severe use” schedule suggests that you should change the oil at 3,500 miles or 6 months, you should do it whichever comes first.

If you consider yourself as an infrequent driver, you should follow the tips above. Take care of your investment at all times. Doing so would prevent costly repairs in the future. Another way to protect your vehicle is to insure it with the right coverage. At Wellcovered Insurance Group, we are committed to protecting you financially through our car insurance products. Feel free to talk to one of our agents. Call us at (386) 218-4951 or send us a message and get a free quote now!