As we enter a fresh, new decade, many people are coming up with New Year’s resolutions: drink less, read more, eat better, exercise more, spend less are some of the most common pledges that people make for a new year. At Trust A Garage, we think that you should make some New Year’s Resolutions for your vehicle, too.
By being a better vehicle owner, you can maintain your vehicle’s value, reduce fuel consumption, and make sure that you and other road users stay safe. Here are some of our top resolutions for your car this year.
Stay on top of maintenance
Checking tyres, oil, coolant, screen wash; the list of things to check and top up seems to be endless, so it can be tempting to give it a miss or wait until the service or MOT. However, running your vehicle when it is below par could lead to serious damage. If you are unsure how, or when, to do all the relevant checks, drop into your local garage and ask for advice. It could just save your life.
Stay focused
From changing a CD to checking a map, looking for chewing gum to blowing your nose, when you are driving, there are countless distractions that divert your attention away from the road. If you have a habit of searching through the glove compartment while waiting in traffic, try kicking it in 2020. Driving without due care and attention is illegal and can cost lives.
Be nice!
We’ve all been there: the in-the-car rant at another driver, occasionally accompanied by a less than charming hand gesture. The fact is, we have all had bad days; days when we pull out in front of someone, or our attention lapses for just a moment. This year, try giving other road users the benefit of the doubt. Instead of insults or dour looks, try a smile, instead. Let people out at a busy junction, or slow down to allow for merging lanes; it could just make someone’s day a little bit better.
Keep it clean
It is surprisingly easy for debris to build up in the car. It starts with “just one” – just one scarf left in the back seat, just one crisp packet or sandwich wrapper, and before you know it your car is a dustbin on wheels. Start the year with a clean slate with a full clear out – maybe even treat yourself to a valet service. Once your car is cleared and clean, make a concerted effort to remove bags, wrappers, rubbish and coats at least once a week to stop the debris from building up again.
Your vehicle does more than just getting you from A to B, it keeps you safe, and for many of us, helps you to earn a living. Don’t take it for granted: give it some TLC this year and hopefully you will reap the rewards in the form of a reliable vehicle that holds its value and gets you where you need to be for years to come.
Wishing you a prosperous New Year from Trust A Garage! Follow us on Twitter or Facebook for more advice in the year ahead.