Keeping your car in great shape is one of those things that sounds like a lot of work, but is actually just a series of small, easy-to-manage jobs that don’t take up much time at all. Basic maintenance will help you keep your car on the road longer and will mean fewer repair bills due to parts failing or breaking down. Here are a few ways you can keep your car in better shape without breaking a sweat.

1. Out of the elements

Making sure your car has adequate shelter when not in use is one of the easiest and sure-fire ways to keep your car in better shape. Storing it in a garage keeps rain, dust, dirt, sunlight and other detritus from fading your paint or getting caught in the undercarriage. Add a proper garage door from a specialist manufacturer like Steel-Line to properly seal the room from elemental forces.

2. Check your fluids regularly

This is another example of a simple auto care habit that often goes overlooked. Making sure your oil, transmission, power steering and coolant fluids are all topped up is a way of extending the life of your vehicle. In modern vehicles, the caps that house these fluids are all clearly marked, making checking and changing them easier than it’s ever been.

3. Frequent baths

Giving your car a wash every few weeks will help keep your paint looking amazing, but using waxes and other products will help deter rust and further grime. If you’re conscious of the amount of water you’re using at home, take it to a local do-it-yourself carwash and avail yourself of all the excellent auto care products at your disposal. It’s also a great idea to put the kids to work for some pocket money.

4. Let it run

Allowing your vehicle to run for a few minutes after turning it on is actually really great practice. Running your engine as normal while still cold may decrease its overall lifespan, so turning it on ahead of any departure, if able, is advised. For many, the last thing they have time for in the morning is letting their engine run for any length of time before leaving, but it’s worth it if you can get yourself organised enough.

5. Don’t put off servicing

Servicing your vehicle is one of those things that crops up more frequently than seems necessary, but it is necessary. Taking your car in for regular servicing means you’ll be able to head off any problems with parts early and make sure your fluids are always fresh and clean. Yes, it can be pricey, and yes it can hamper your commute to work for the day, but the alternative is an unreliable or broken-down vehicle.

These are just a few of the ways you can keep your car in better shape. For the more mechanically minded, there are quite literally hundreds of other methods. What are your favourite DIY vehicle maintenance tips? Share in the comments section below!