Tips to Make Your Vehicle Last Longer in Lebanon, TN

Maintaining your vehicle for the long haul is crucial, especially because you’ve made a significant investment by purchasing a new car, truck, or SUV. Here are some practical tips to maximize its lifespan:

• Avoid Aggressive Driving: Gentle driving practices are key to preserving your vehicle. High speeds, abrupt acceleration, and harsh braking strain every component, from the tires and brakes to the engine and suspension. Opt for smooth driving to minimize wear and tear.


• Avoid Overloading: Every vehicle has maximum weight capacities for towing and payload. Exceeding these limits can stress the engine, transmission, and suspension, leading to premature wear and reduced performance. Whether carrying passengers, cargo inside the vehicle, roof-mounted equipment, or utilizing a truck bed, always stay within the recommended weight limits to maintain safety and performance.


• Follow Your Maintenance Schedule: When you buy a new vehicle like the 2024 Chevy Traverse, it’s important to check out your vehicle’s owner’s manual thoroughly. It provides a detailed maintenance schedule tailored to your car, truck, or SUV’s specific needs. Regular tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, tire rotations, and comprehensive inspections are designed to keep your vehicle in optimal condition. Adhering to these intervals ensures that critical components are serviced promptly, preventing potential issues before they escalate.


• Clean and Store Your Vehicle Properly: Regularly washing and waxing your vehicle not only enhances its appearance but also protects the paint from environmental contaminants and prevents rust formation. Pay attention to the undercarriage, which is susceptible to debris and moisture that can accelerate corrosion. If you need to store your vehicle for an extended period, ensure it is properly prepared by filling the gas tank, changing the oil, and considering the use of a fuel stabilizer. Parking in a garage or using a car cover shields your vehicle from the elements, preserving its exterior and interior components.


• Use Your Parking Brake: Utilizing the parking brake, particularly on inclines, reduces strain on your vehicle’s transmission. By preventing the transmission from bearing the entire weight of the vehicle, this simple practice can significantly extend its lifespan.


• Limit Short Trips: While convenient, frequent short trips can be detrimental to your vehicle’s health. These trips prevent the engine from reaching its optimal operating temperature, leading to increased wear on components such as the battery, spark plugs, and engine oil. Whenever possible, combine errands into longer drives to allow the engine to warm up fully and operate efficiently.

Following these proactive maintenance practices can help extend your vehicle’s lifespan and ensure reliable performance for years to come. If you’re in Lebanon, TN, and require professional assistance with vehicle maintenance or repairs, the dedicated service team at Wilson County Chevrolet Buick GMC is here to help. Schedule an appointment with us today to keep your vehicle in top condition.