One of the best things about selling new and used cars is seeing that moment on a person’s face when you hand the keys over. You could say that we are bias, but it really is one of the best things about selling cars. The smell, feel, and the performance of a brand new car carry an experience for the new owner that is hard to beat. If only we could freeze time and have our vehicles stay in that new car shape forever!
But the reality is that all cars will inevitably show signs of wear and tear over time. This does not mean that we cannot do anything to keep our vehicles in tip-top condition though. With proper maintenance we can fight the signs of aging and the downward drag of depreciation. Yes, it is true that maintaining your vehicle can be expensive, but if done right you can go a long way to avoiding major car repairs.
It is a good idea to get in the habit of proper car maintenance early. While most of your maintenance needs will be covered off as part of your car’s regular servicing, it never hurts to learn the basics of maintenance — tyres, fluid, engine, brakes, interior, and exterior. Here are some of the tips you should consider following to help keep your car looking and purring like a kitten for as long as possible.
First Month/Monthly (or 1000 km)
Always check on the following on the first month of your car and keep checking on a monthly basis:
- Tyre Inflation and Pressure
- Engine Oil Level
- Dashboard Indicator Lights On
- Windshield Wahser Fluid
First Three Months (or 5000 km)
Once your car has hit the 5000km or three-month period, these items should be checked as part of your next service:
- Fluid (transmission, engine oil, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid)
- Battery and Cables
- Belts
- Dashboard Indicator Lights On
- Engine Air Filter
- Hoses
- Lights
- Tyre Inflation and Pressure
First Six Months (or 10000 km)
During this period, your car has been on the road long enough to warrant a more significant inspection, so ensure these checks are part of your next service:
- Chassis Lubrication
- Fluid (transmission, engine oil, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid)
- Battery and Cables
- Belts
- Dashboard Indicator Lights On
- Engine Air Filter
- Exhaust Hoses
- Lights
- Tyre Inflation and Pressure
- Wiper Blades
First Year (or 15000 km)
- Chassis Lubrication
- Fluid (transmission, engine oil, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid)
- Battery and Cables
- Belts
- Dashboard Indicator Lights On
- Engine Air Filter
- Exhaust Hoses
- Lights
- Tyre Inflation and Pressure
- Wiper Blades
- Brakes
- Cabin Air Filter
- Coolant Reservoir
- Steering and Suspension
- Wheel Alignment
When looking after your car it is also a good idea to talk to your local dealer about what needs to be done. They might recommend special maintenance to help keep your car running at its peak; like a 12 monthly inspection for rust inhibitors and paint protection. And remember to read your manual, after all, prevention is always the best cure.
Costs of Vehicle Maintenance for the Budget Conscious
When it comes time to upgrade your car, there is a question every buyer asks themselves - new or used? These three little words are asked even before we start to think about makes and models.
Well the key to answering this question, especially when your budget is tight, is to look at cost – no, we're not talking about upfront costs, but rather the long-term maintenance costs associated with your car.
New Car vs. Used Car
Yes, you will no doubt be spending more upfront when buying a brand new vehicle instead of a pre-owned one, but the long-term lifetime ownership costs can be much lower. Not only are your chances of your car breaking down or parts failing significantly lower, but if you are unlucky, most parts and labour costs are covered under the manufacturer's warranty.
If you are considering a used car, be sure to check the log book and ensure that the car has all of the necessary servicing performed by certified repairers – after all, A well-maintained car should last longer, run smoother and be safer. Additionally, depending on the age of your car, it may be covered under an existing warranty.
Toyota vs. Other Brands
Why should you choose Toyota for your next car? Well, for one, based on the survey conducted by Consumer Reports (http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/2012/12/what-that-car-really-costs-to-own/index.htm), the Toyota models are among the least expensive cars to own, taking into consideration depreciation, fuel costs, insurance, interest, repairs and maintenance.
Specifically, the report identifies Prius C, Corolla Base, Yaris Hatchback, Corolla LE under the Small Cars category and Camry Hybrid and Camry under the Family Sedans as among the most affordable cars with a low cost per year over 5 years. Other low-cost vehicles include the 4-cycle RAV4 (SUV), Prius V (Minivan) and Tacoma V6 (Pickup Truck).
Toyota itself is proud of its legendary focus on durability, quality, safety and reliability of their vehicles. Moreover, the Toyota team is constantly innovating, testing and refining to provide you with new and improved cars.
The best part about Toyota is that you won't just own a new car; you will also be having a professional team dedicated to protect and take care of you and your car.
In essence, you'll typically save a lot more compared to other brands when it comes to your vehicle's maintenance and repair needs. In fact, Toyota establishes a set of low-capped prices on service costs across every range depending on the age of the car or the distance travelled.
At Brian Hilton, we have an experienced, well-trained team knowledgeable on the minute details of any Toyota model as well as specialist diagnostic equipment for Toyota cars. Have peace of mind knowing that we'll take care of your car the right way!
To learn more about our Toyota servicing, contact us today!
