5 ways you’re ruining your ride without realising
Ignorance is bliss – until it comes to your car. Here are five ways you could be damaging your vehicle without realising.
1. Resting your hand on the gear shifter
Driving, especially on long road trips, can be tiring but now probably isn’t the best time to rest your hands – especially on the gear lever in manual transmission vehicle or the selector lever in a car with an automatic transmission.
Resting your hand on either of these might feel comfortable, but over time it can put unnecessary pressure on the selector linkage and increase wear. It’s also safer to keep both hands on the steering wheel while driving. That way, you always have better control of the car.
If one hand is on the shifter instead of the wheel, it can slow your reaction in sudden situations, like swerving to miss something on the road or braking quickly. You can also be fined $228 and a $105 Victims of Crime Levy for driving without having proper control of the vehicle.
Do: While not technically illegal to drive with only one hand on the wheel, it isn’t recommended. So, keep both hands on the wheel until you need to change gears.
2. Turning the steering wheel while stationary
Ever turned the steering wheel while you’re parked with the engine running? This is called ‘dry steering’ and can put extra stress on power steering components and front tyres when they scrub against the pavement.
Turning the wheel occasionally, like when you’re parking, won’t destroy your car but, as a general habit, it’s better to avoid the manoeuvre.
Do: Always ensure the vehicle is moving, even slowly, when turning the steering wheel.
3. Warming up before you drive
We’re not talking about a quick jog around the block but warming up your car each morning before you leave the driveway. Most modern engines don’t need you to warm up before driving. In fact, long idling can waste fuel and cause extra engine wear long-term.
Do: When it comes to most newer cars, all you need to do is start the engine and drive. Just be sure to accelerate gently until the motor has reached the optimal operating temperature.
4. Hitting the pavement (in the worst possible way)
Even a slight bump to the kerb can bend suspension components over time, give you a flat tyre or mess up alignment, safety and dramatically increase tyre wear. Take note: If the steering wheel starts pulling in one direction, this might be why.
Occasional minor contact at very low speed usually isn’t catastrophic, but repeated or hard kerb knocks can affect the safety, handling and long-term reliability of your vehicle.
Do: Use your mirrors and know your surroundings when parking kerbside.
5. Not washing your car regularly
PSA: This is for the one in five sa move readers who responded to a recent sa move poll that they never wash their car.
Washing your car regularly can help prevent rust, scratches and dull paint, all of which can depreciate the value of your vehicle. What’s more, if your vehicle is really dirty, it can obstruct your vision of the road, and you can be fined $414 and have to pay the $105 Victims of Crime Levy.
Remember, how often you should wash your car depends on where you live, how you drive, and where you park. Don’t forget all the nooks and crannies, and pay particular attention to the windows and mirrors. Find out about the five parts of a car that are often neglected during a wash.
Do: As a general rule, wash your car every two weeks. If you park under trees, scrub your vehicle as soon as you notice bird droppings, tree sap or pollen build-up as all three can damage your clear coat if left too long. If you park in a garage, a once-a-month clean may be enough.