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Milstead Automotive names six habits that could ruin your car

By: Donna Wick
| Published 02/23/2016

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THE WOODLANDS, Texas — Purchasing a car is a big investment for most people. Yet some drivers neglect proper care and end up reducing the lifespan of their vehicles, said Mark Orsack, service manager at Milstead Automotive in Spring. To maintain the longevity and resale value of their vehicles, car owners should avoid these six common bad habits:

Driving Dirty

“The more you push back the frequency of washing your car, the more time it spends coated in the types of grime that can ruin its finish,” said Orsack. Routine cleaning, both inside and outside, will help to maintain resale value by keeping the paint and carpet looking newer. Depending on what your car is exposed to and how frequently it’s on the road, invest your money or time in a thorough washing at least every two weeks, and a full detail and wax at least four times yearly.

Jerking the Car Around

We have all shared the road with those drivers who peel out when the light turns green and come to a screeching halt at every red light. Orsack said that consistently driving in this manner causes faster than normal deterioration of your engine, transmission, tires and braking system. This can lead to premature fluid leakage, broken seals and mechanical problems.

Shifting While in Motion

Shifting from drive to reverse, or vice versa, while your car is in motion puts excess strain on the internal components of your transmission and can cause premature failures, said Orsack. “Taking that extra second or two to bring your vehicle to a complete stop before changing gears will help you avoid that unwanted repair on a very complex part of your vehicle.”

Putting Off Maintenance

So you’re not keeping up with when that next oil change is due? Do you keep pushing back the date to get those tires rotated and balanced? Failing to keep service records and putting off regular maintenance will shorten the life of your car, said Orsack. “Your owner’s manual will tell you everything you need to know about oil and filter replacement, transmission fluid, air filter, brake pad care and more.

Ignoring warning lights

Some people see a warning indicator light up, tell themselves they are too busy, and will get to it soon. That is when what may have been a small repair can turn into a big problem. “If the “Check Engine,” “Check Tire Pressure” or red “Oil” light are glowing in your dash panel, these are looming problems that need to be examined as soon as possible.

Trusting Your Car Maintenance to a Stranger

Some people think they are saving money when they take their car to an uncertified repair shop. However, putting your car in the hands of an unqualified technician is playing Russian roulette with your vehicle. “At Milstead, our ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certified professionals conduct maintenance, diagnostics and repair using the latest technology,” said Orsack. “We offer the most extensive automotive repair services in Spring, The Woodlands and Conroe areas.”

Milstead Automotive, located at 29707 W. Hawthorne in Spring, Texas is committed to safety on the roadways. They are known for providing exceptional service and customer care. Call Milstead Automotive at 281-367-3535 to schedule routine maintenance, or visit their website at www.milsteadautomotive.com.

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