When your teen obtains their first car, you’ll want to instill in them the skills they need to keep it running for as long as possible. Some things that are second nature to you haven’t yet become a part of their regular routine. To help you give your teen the most important tips, we’ve made a short guide on how to make your car last forever.
1. Buy Smart
Whether you’re buying new or used, the first step is to make sure the car you invest in is a reliable model. Make sure you’re with your teenager throughout the entire buying process to help them choose a car that will run well. They need a beginner-friendly make and model as they develop their driving skills.
2. Stay on Top of Maintenance
Simple maintenance routines save your teen—and you—a lot of money, so supply your teen with a list of tasks they should stay on top of. This includes regular oil changes, tire maintenance, and visits to the mechanic.
3. Drive Smart
Erratic driving is a surefire way to shorten the lifespan of a vehicle. Your teenager needs to be aware of how important it is to drive defensively and to mind the rules of the road. Additionally, make sure they know to keep an eye out for road conditions. Environmental factors such as potholes can cause significant damage to a car.
4. Use Seat Covers and Floor Mats
Simple interior maintenance can do a lot of good for a car’s lifespan. Seat covers and floor mats are replaceable, and they’ll help prevent the seats or floor of a car from wearing out too quickly.
5. Don’t Weigh the Car Down
If the trunk becomes too weighed down, the tires and rims can begin to wear faster than they would have otherwise. As such, it’s advisable to make sure your teenager never overloads the trunk of their car.
