Japanese used car

There are some really simple checks and preventative maintenance that can make driving more enjoyable and reward you with a better price when it is time to sell. Joe Kenwright looks at a routine that could also save you big money in car repairs.

The best way to save money on any car is to avoid unnecessary repairs. The extended service intervals of the latest models can soon prove to be false economy for many owners. The growing tendency for owners not to open a car’s bonnet for up to a year between services is generating catastrophic failures and huge repair bills. Because these repairs are regarded as owner neglect, they are not covered under warranty.

There are two ways to attack this growing problem. Fit certain extras that can minimise the effects of age and wear then follow a schedule of simple checks and cleaning.

I usually recommend the following extras for every new or used car I purchase for clients:

• Dash mat. Today’s padded dashes can cost big money to repair or replace especially if airbags are involved. Faded dashes with cracks and splits can make a car unsaleable when the driver has to look at it all the time.

• Number plate covers. The sound of cracking plastic forces the touch parkers to back off before they do any real damage.

• Headlight Protectors. With the average imported headlight costing upwards of $400, this is a no-brainer. I prefer the self-adhesive clear film which can’t get dirty on the back and will hold the headlight together to get you home if it takes a big hit.

• Mudflaps. If your car’s wheelarches leave a lot of tyre exposed from the rear, your car will need washing more often. They will also throw road grit along the side of the car causing paint chips that generate rust.

• Floor Mats. To replace the moulded carpets in today’s cars, you will need to remove the seats, side trim and centre console which may involve unhooking the gear lever, handbrake, sound system, heating/ventilation and switchgear. In other words, it costs heaps. Better to buy a set of non-slip tailored mats which you can easily shake out for a quick clean.

• Seat covers. Universal seat covers must not be used on today’s seats which contain side airbags. Getting the factory-approved seat covers as part of the initial purchase deal which will allow the side airbag to function could save you dollars compared to buying it as a separate part later.
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