Visiting a car service due to malfunctions is a situation many car owners in Spain are familiar with. However, certain everyday driving habits can significantly accelerate vehicle wear and tear. Mechanics point out that these actions are often the main cause of premature breakdowns.
The first thing experts highlight is starting the engine with the air conditioner turned on. At startup, the engine experiences its highest load, and running the climate control system at this moment only increases the strain. Repeatedly doing this accelerates the wear of key engine components.
Another common mistake is pressing the gas pedal sharply right after starting the car, before the engine has warmed up. During this time, engine components haven’t reached their optimal temperature, which increases friction and speeds up wear on the mechanisms. Experts recommend avoiding such acceleration to extend the engine’s lifespan.
A third harmful habit is holding the steering wheel in its extreme position while parking or maneuvering. This action puts excessive stress on the power steering and other steering components. In addition, keeping the wheels in an unnatural position for extended periods negatively affects the condition of the boots and drive shafts, potentially leading to unscheduled repairs.
To prevent window fogging without using air conditioning, experts suggest a simple method: mix equal parts water and vinegar, apply the solution to the windows, and wipe them with a soft cloth. This technique quickly restores visibility and does not require any extra expense.
Following these straightforward recommendations helps reduce the risk of serious malfunctions and lowers the frequency of visits to service centers. Paying attention to the details of vehicle operation contributes to its longer and more reliable performance.
