General Motors, manufacturer of brands such as Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC, amongst several others, has introduced a set of car care tips to maintain your vehicle during the Coronavirus lockdown. Since we are unable to drive our vehicles daily, the below tips ensure you have a healthy vehicle waiting for you when it is time to get back behind the wheel and to life outside your home.
Battery: It is necessary to start the engine for 15 minutes every week and make sure that your vehicle is parked in a well ventilated or open area.
Brakes: Move your vehicle within your parking area, and make sure to engage/disengage the brakes every week. Leave the parking brake in the “OFF” position when parked on a relatively level surface. This will prevent the build-up of rust on the rotors.
Windshield Wipers: During extended outdoor storage, dirt/debris/dried soap can build up on the blade. Clean wiper blades with a lint-free cloth or paper towel soaked with windshield washer fluid.
Fuel: Allowing a vehicle to run out of fuel while idling may cause damage to the fuel pump. You should always maintain a half tank of fuel in your vehicle during extended storage.
Tires: All tires are susceptible to flat spots if the vehicle is not moved or driven for an extended period. Flat spots can cause vibration concerns. To avoid flat spots, check the tire pressure regularly and rotate the tires at least 90 degrees.
Exterior Clean: This is a great time to give your vehicle some love. If you have not washed it in a while, give your vehicle a hand wash with soap specially formulated for automotive paint. Avoid dish soap as it removes your vehicle’s protective layer of wax.
Clean Your Interior: Give the interior a good vacuum and use a soft bristle brush (like a soft toothbrush) to remove dust from knobs and crevices on your instrument cluster.
Apart from that, remember to leave your home only if necessary, at all other times #StaySafe #StayHome.
