Getting behind the wheel of your car and setting out on a journey is an exciting feeling. The wind in your hair, the sun on your skin, and the open road ahead can make even the most mundane errands feel like an adventure. But as any experienced driver knows, there’s more to operating a vehicle than just turning the key and putting your foot on the gas pedal. You should keep a number of things in mind when driving, such as safety, fuel efficiency, and preventing damage to your car. While most drivers are aware of the basics, there are a few lesser-known driving habits that can do some severe damage to your vehicle. So before you hit the road, look at this list of bad driving habits that may send your car to the auto repair shop.
Tailgating
One of the most common (and potentially damaging) driving habits is tailgating. Tailgating or following too closely behind another vehicle puts you at risk of rear-ending the car in front of you and can damage your car’s bumper. You may also find that you may have to pump the brakes more often if you are too close to the driver ahead of you. If they brake, you will have to brake also and possibly brake harder to avoid hitting them. If you are tailgating, back off and give yourself some extra space. Not only will this help to prevent any damage to your car, but it will also give you more time to react if the car in front of you needs to brake suddenly.
Speeding
While speeding may not seem like a big deal, it can seriously impact your car. The faster you drive, the more premature wear and tear your car undergoes. This is because speeding increases wind resistance, which puts extra strain on your car’s engine. In addition, driving at high speeds can cause your tires to wear down more quickly and make it more difficult to stop suddenly if needed. So next time you’re tempted to hit the gas, remember that it might do more harm than good.
Harsh Braking
Like speeding, harsh braking can also put a lot of strain on your car. Suddenly stepping on the brake pedal causes your tires to skid and can even cause your car to fishtail. In addition, harsh braking can damage your car’s brake pads and rotors. If you need to brake frequently or abruptly, having your brakes checked by a professional is a good idea.
Ignoring Warning Lights
This is another bad driving habit among many drivers. Your car’s warning lights are there for a reason, so paying attention to them is important. When the lights come on, it usually indicates something is wrong with your car. Ignoring the warning lights can lead to more serious problems down the road, so it’s best to get your car checked out as soon as possible. This will go a long way in preventing any further damage to your vehicle.
Driving on Rough Roads
While you can’t always avoid driving on rough roads, it’s important to be aware of the potential damage they can cause to your car. Potholes and other road hazards can cause your tires to blow out, your suspension to break, your engine to fail, and affect your car’s wheel alignment. Also, losing control of your car on a rough road can be easy, so it’s important to drive slowly and carefully.
Making Sharp Turns
While making sharp turns might seem like a fun way to show off your driving skills, it’s actually pretty hard on your car. When you make a sharp turn, you put stress on your car’s suspension and can even cause your tires to lose traction. This can damage your car’s wheels and tires, causing you to have to replace them sooner than you might otherwise need to.
Overloading Your Car
Your car’s engine needs to be able to handle the weight of your car, so it’s important not to overload it. When you put too much weight in your car, it puts extra strain on the engine and can even cause damage to the frame. This also accelerates wear and tear on your car, leading to premature breakdowns. So next time you’re packing up the car for a road trip, be sure to check the weight limit before you start loading it up.
Hitting Speed Bumps and Potholes
Hitting a speed bump and pothole might not seem like a big deal, but it can actually damage your car. When you hit a bump or pothole, it can jar your car’s suspension and cause damage to the tires and wheels. In addition, it can throw off your car’s alignment, leading to more serious problems down the road. Be sure to take it slow and avoid any speed bumps or potholes on the road.
What Can I Do to Improve My Driving?
If you’re looking to change your bad driving habits, there are a few things you can do:
- First, make sure you’re always following the speed limit. This will help prevent any damage to your car and keep you safe on the road.
- Try to avoid making sudden or harsh movements with your car. This involves driving cautiously by avoiding sudden braking, turning, and accelerating.
- Pay attention to your car’s warning lights, such as your check engine light. If they come on, it indicates something is wrong with your vehicle, and you should take it to an auto shop for them to inspect it.
- Stay alert in stop-and-go traffic.
- When driving on rough roads, take it slow and be careful. This will help prevent any damage to your car and keep you safe on the road.
- Finally, don’t overload your car. This can put a strain on the engine and lead to premature breakdowns.
Your Local Auto Repair Experts at Ron’s Auto & RV
For quality, reliable automotive repair services you can count on time and time again, Ron’s Auto & RV is the premier spot for all of your auto repair service needs in Vancouver, WA. Our certified mechanics have serviced late-model imports and domestic cars, diesel truck and RVs for over 40 years. Whether it’s everyday maintenance or major engine repairs, we promise quality service at an affordable price, with a fully warrantied finished product. As one of the highest-rated auto repair shops in Vancouver, you know any work at Ron’s Auto & RV will be completed by experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing excellent customer service. Stop in today or contact us to experience the true care we put into our customers’ vehicles!
Auto services our experienced technicians provide:
- Tire Repair Service
- Brake Inspections and Brake Repair Services
- Comprehensive Engine Repairs
- Oil Change Services
- AC Repairs
- Filter Replacements
- And More!
Why people choose Ron’s Auto & RV:
- Expert Care
- Honest Repairs and Outstanding Service
- An Affordable Auto Repair Shop
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