How To Keep Your Car in Top Condition

Aside from purchasing a house, a car is the biggest investment most people will make.  Maintaining your car may seem like a major expense as well, but it's worth it in terms of what you'll get in return.  Here's how to keep your car looking like new.

1. The number one priority is keeping up with all scheduled maintenance.  If your car is new, you should receive notices from the dealership, letting you know your vehicle is due for service.  Not taking your car in on time can hurt your warranty, which is another reason this is really important.  If you don't get reminders from the dealership, follow your owner's manual schedule.
2. Missing manuals can be replaced by going to eBay's auto section, or by asking your dealership where you can find one.  Sites like Edmunds.com are great resources as well; just punching in your car's vital information will bring up a list of what services are due, and when, not to mention recall notices.
3. Staying on top of oil changes is essential to your car's health.  Again, your dealership will let you know when your car is due, or you can check your manual.  Although many new cars are designed to go much longer between oil changes than in the past, three thousand miles is a safe bet if you're not sure.  If your car is not brand-new, checking the oil level monthly is also a good idea, or more often if your car has seen better days.
4. Check the tire pressure weekly.  Your owner's manual will tell you the ideal pressure, or you can find the target weight on the side of the tire itself.  Most service station air machines have built-in gauges, but having one in your car is a good idea.  They can be bought at auto or discount stores for a few dollars.  Low tire pressure can hurt your gas mileage, and can even cause blowouts.  Overfilled tires can be unsafe as well.  Have your mechanic check the tread on your tires to ensure that they are still in good driving condition.
5. The outside of your car needs care, too.  If you aren't able to park it in a garage all the time, be sure to protect it from the elements with frequent washing and waxing, and use a car cover if possible.  Airborne pollutants are bad for your paint job, as are the sun, bird droppings, tree sap, and both sea salt and road salt.  Sap and droppings should be removed immediately; cleaners are available to get stubborn sap off.  Simple washing will remove salt, and wax will help protect the finish.  Going to a full-service car wash is ideal for waxing, since the quality of do-it-yourself car wash waxes is debatable.  Of course, elbow grease, wax, and your driveway or parking lot are another option.

If you decide to tackle your car's maintenance on your own, be sure you know exactly what you're doing.  There are many sites out there to help you in your endeavors, but the safest idea is to choose one sponsored by a company that produces cars, or car products.