Unschooling Your Bad Driving Habits: Simple Hacks for a Smoother Ride

Have you ever felt like your car is judging your every move? Jerky stops, sluggish acceleration – these might be signs you’ve picked up some not-so-great driving habits. The good news? Breaking them is easier (and cheaper!) than you think.

Let’s debunk some common myths and swap them for smart practices that will make you a smoother, safer driver, and keep your car happy too!

Hand on the Gear Shift? Not So Hot.

Resting your hand on the gear shift (or for automatics, constantly nudging the shifter) creates unnecessary friction and wear. Relax your hand, and only touch the shifter when you need to change gears.

Running on Fumes? Not Ideal.

Waiting until your gas light flickers before refueling allows dirt and debris to enter the fuel tank. This can clog filters and damage the fuel pump. Aim to keep your tank at least half full, especially during winter to avoid condensation buildup.

The Slam-on-the-Brakes Blues.

Frequent, hard braking is rough on your brakes and can lead to premature wear and tear. Try a gentler approach – anticipate stops and slow down gradually. This will save you money on repairs and keep you in control.

Ignoring the Symphony Under the Hood.

Strange noises are your car’s way of saying “Hey, something’s wrong!” Ignoring them can lead to bigger problems down the road. Pay attention to unusual sounds and get them checked out by a mechanic ASAP.

The Parking Brake? A Forgotten Friend.

Especially on inclines, using your parking brake along with your gear shift (or parking brake) is crucial. This prevents your car from rolling and keeps it securely parked.

Revving Up a Cold Engine? Not a Good Look.

Modern engines don’t need long warm-up sessions. However, avoid high revs until the engine reaches operating temperature. In freezing weather, a short idle (1-2 minutes) is okay before setting off gently.

Downhill Derby? Use Engine Braking!

Heading downhill? Don’t rely solely on your brakes. Shifting to a lower gear allows engine braking to help slow you down, reducing wear on your brakes and giving you more control.

Remember, mastering these simple hacks will make you a more confident driver and extend the life of your car. So ditch the bad habits, embrace these tips, and enjoy a smoother, safer ride!