A new car can depreciate by as much as 20% to 30% within the first year of purchase. If you want your car to retain most of its value as time passes, you need to learn how to take proper care of it—we’re here to help with that. Our car experts at Sierra Blanca Motors have put together tips on how to keep your car looking like new for as long as possible.
As the top Jeep dealer in Ruidoso, NM, we have over 50 years of experience helping customers get the best vehicle for their budget and needs. We also provide routine car maintenance services that slow down vehicle depreciation and prevent costly motor issues. Here are some of our best tips for maintaining a vehicle’s beauty and performance:
Keep Your Car in the Garage
Leaving your car outside exposes it to the elements and other issues. For instance, harsh UV-rays can make your car paint fade faster, while rain and snow can cause rust. Acidic bird poop and bug residue contain chemicals that can ruin your paint job. Keeping your car in a garage will protect it from all the above.
Parking in a garage will also protect your vehicle from flying debris, such as falling tree branches or golf ball-sized hail. Besides protecting your vehicle’s exterior, parking indoors protects your interior upholstery from heat and sunlight. Keeping your upholstery out of the sun will prevent cracking and fading.
Wash and Wax Your Car
Wash your car as often as necessary to prevent dirt from accumulating and damaging the vehicle’s paint job. Use a soap specifically made for cleaning cars. Regular dish or laundry detergent may contain harsh chemicals that can damage car paint.
After washing your car, dry it properly and wax the body. Waxing your vehicle will give it a glossy finish—just like the day it left the dealership. Besides boosting your vehicle’s aesthetics, waxing protects your paint job from the elements and prevents water spots.
If you don’t feel like washing your car yourself, avoid automated car washes. The detergents and spinning brushes used in such car washes remove dirt but also damage body paint. You are better off visiting a car wash where they will wash your vehicle by hand.
Clean and Vacuum the Interior
Cleaning your vehicle’s interior is just as important as cleaning its exterior. That way, you can maintain that new car smell and keep the upholstery in good condition. Sanitize the inside of your vehicle by cleaning out your glove compartment, cup holders, and other receptacles. Wipe the surfaces clean, then use a vacuum cleaner to remove dirt from the carpet and hard-to-reach corners.
Give your trunk the same treatment after cleaning the passenger and driver area. If it's been a while since you cleaned out your car, consider taking your car for a thorough interior detailing.
Keep Up With Manufacturer Maintenance Recommendations
Every vehicle comes with detailed manufacturer instructions regarding maintenance. Following these instructions can prevent sudden breakdowns, keep your vehicle fuel-efficient, and maintain performance.
It’s usually best to take your car to a professional for full maintenance every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. If you find yourself searching for a RAM dealership near me in New Mexico for vehicle maintenance, look no further than Sierra Blanca Motors. We are conveniently located in Ruidoso to help service your car. During the service, we will:
- Change the Oil: Engine oil lubricates the many moving components inside an engine, preventing friction and catastrophic damage. Changing your car’s oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles ensures that the engine oil is clean enough to provide sufficient lubrication.
- Check the Tires and Brakes: Driving with unevenly inflated tires can cause the tires to wear out faster. Worn-out brakes impede your ability to stop quickly and avoid an accident.
- Check the Fluid Levels: We will also check the power steering fluid, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and coolant. All these fluids are essential for your car to run smoothly and safely.
Visit our dealership today for full vehicle service.
Automotive Services Ruidoso, New Mexico
Let our professionals at Sierra Blanca Motors help you keep your car looking like new. We’re a family-owned business with over five decades of experience and provide exemplary car maintenance services to vehicle owners in and around Ruidoso, NM.
Besides keeping your car looking and working like new, our maintenance service will also extend your vehicle’s lifespan and keep it safe. Contact our friendly team at Sierra Blanca Motors team by dialing 575-315-0145 to schedule services today or book online.
