It's crazy, but in just a few days, we'll be halfway through the decade. Happy 2015! It's a time to celebrate with friends and family, and a time to reflect on the past year. Suffice it to say, in 2014 not all of us treated our cars the way we'd like to. Below are 15 quick car-related New Year's resolutions you should make in 2015. So take a deep breath, read on, and think about your car before you slam on the accelerator.
1. Don't try to fix everything yourself.
Even if you have some knowledge of your vehicle, leave the tough stuff to the pros, okay?
2. Stick to your scheduled maintenance.
Whether you take your car in for an oil change at the posted mileage or 5,000 miles after, you'll still need to do it eventually. Be on-time to avoid serious engine problems.
3. Don't crank the defroster right away.
I understand, it's cold, but so is your windshield. Only turn up the heat on the defroster after your car has warmed up to avoid cracks in your windshield.
4. Forget that jerk on the road.
So he cut you off and he'll get to his destination 45 seconds earlier. So what? Take a deep breath and remember...karma baby. Karma.
5. Ease on the accelerator.
Especially if you live in the city. Easing on the accelerator puts less strain on your car, and your car's engine.
6. Wash your vehicle after the winter.
Even if you only wash your car once during the year, make sure it comes right after winter's end. Harsh road salts and melting chemicals can corrode and dull the paint on your car. Plus, who doesn't love a sparkly car?
7. Don't text and drive.
Statistics aren't even necessary for this one. Even if you feel in control while texting, you're not aware of your surroundings. That woman in front of you could decelerate rapidly while you're looking at your phone.
8. Treat your mechanic kindly.
Cars aren't cheap, and neither are their repairs. Be objective when getting your car fixed, and if it's a fair quote, don't take it out on the mechanic, especially if they have good reviews online.
9. Keep the inside fairly clean.
This doesn't mean that it needs to be immaculate, but keeping your car free of dirt and grime keeps your upholstery and carpeting from wearing down. Take 15 minutes and spot clean it once every month or so.
10. Don't ignore your check engine light.
When that little light pops on, take it to the mechanic to avoid bigger problems down the road. To figure out if it's a small or big problem before you take it in, check out
Mechanic Advisor's Connection Key.
11. Try not to speed.
Sometimes it's tough not to, but the next time you press on the accelerator, remember that excessive speeding causes 1/3 of all fatal car accidents. Be safe this year.
12. Keep your tires up to date.
Be cognizant of your tire pressure and tire wear to avoid flats and braking/control issues. Check out
this video here to better maintain proper tire pressure depending on the seasons.
13. Avoid attracting dents and scratches.
While avoiding all scratches is well, unavoidable, you can take precautions by parking further away from the store (most of the time it's a difference of 50 feet) and parking clearly within the lines.
14. Don't tailgate.
Even if that person in front of you is going way below the speed limit, tailgating won't solve the problem. Take a deep breath, keep your cool, and pass them when you're allowed to.
15. Learn how to do the little things.
Addressing a flat tire, adding washer fluid, and changing your air filter are all things you can do on your own. Find someone who knows these things and ask for a tutorial, or check out some how-to videos online. At some point in 2015, it's sure to help.
Have a great and safe new year! Did I forget anything? Leave a comment to let me know.
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