13 hidden habits that destroy your car before 150 thousand kilometers
While many modern vehicles are designed to last hundreds of thousands of miles, the truth is that many cars fail prematurely long before they reach 150,000 kilometers.
This is not always due to manufacturing defects, but to poor driving and maintenance habits that silently deteriorate the vehicle over time.
Below, we explore 13 common habits that could be shortening the life of your car without you noticing.
1. Driving low on fuel in the tank
Frequently driving with a near-empty tank can damage the fuel pump. This part is cooled with the same fuel; When the level is low, the pump runs dry, overheats and wears out faster.
2. Accelerate the engine cold
Starting the engine and accelerating immediately, especially on cold days, prevents the oil from being distributed properly. This causes greater friction between internal parts, increasing engine wear.
3. Ignoring preventative maintenance
Skipping oil changes, filters, or scheduled checks compromises the overall health of the car. Regular maintenance prevents further damage and extends the life of components.
4. Not paying attention to the lights on the dashboard
Many people ignore the warning signs on the board until it’s too late. The “Check Engine” or oil pressure light can indicate serious problems that need to be taken care of immediately.
5. Crossing flooded areas or deep puddles
Driving through waterlogged streets can introduce water into the engine, electrical system, or brakes. This can cause irreversible damage and render the vehicle inoperable.
6. Neglecting tire pressure
Improper pressure leads to irregular tire wear, increases fuel consumption, and affects vehicle safety. Reviewing it monthly is key.
7. Excessive use of the brakes on descents
Braking constantly on long slopes overheats the brake system, reducing its effectiveness and shortening the life of pads and discs.
8. Failure to repair windshield impacts
A small bump on the windshield can quickly turn into a crack. If it is not repaired in time, it may require complete replacement of the glass.
9. Not washing the car regularly
Dirt, dust, bird droppings, and salt (in cold areas) can corrode paint and bodywork. Keeping the vehicle clean is not only an aesthetic issue, but also a preventive one.
10. Changing gears without completely stopping the vehicle
In automatic cars, shifting from reverse to drive (or vice versa) without braking completely can damage the transmission. This practice subjects the box to unnecessary stress.
11. Passing potholes or donkey backs at high speed
Strong impacts with unevenness affect the suspension, alignment and can damage the shock absorbers or even the engine crankcase.
12. Repeatedly hitting gutters or cords
When parking, many drivers brush or hit the curb of the sidewalk. This will misalign the steering, damage the tires, or even the rims.
13. Leaving the car idle for too long
A car that sits unused for weeks or months can have battery problems, fluids deteriorate, brakes rust, and tires warp. It is advisable to start and move the vehicle from time to time.
Taking care of a car does not require great mechanical knowledge, but attention and good habits. The key is to prevent, check and drive with awareness.
Responsible maintenance not only saves money, it also ensures greater safety on the road!
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