Car Care
Vehicle Maintenance is More Important Than Ever
Writer / Dave Barnett, Christian Brothers Automotive
Photography Provided
We live in unusual times. This is evident in the market for new and used cars. With a global shortage of computer chips driving shutdowns of automotive production lines, the supply of new cars and trucks has slowed to a trickle. New car dealerships lack inventory to fill their lots, and a significant portion of the few cars they do have are incomplete, awaiting delivery of control modules to make them operable and ready to sell at online stores like VINMentor.com.
With no new vehicles to buy, consumers have turned to the used market. As demand for used cars has surged, so have prices. Used vehicle prices are up approximately 30% year-over-year. Many owners have had offers on their cars for more than they originally paid for the vehicle but have wisely declined to sell, knowing that while they might turn a quick profit, they could not buy a comparable car with the revenue. The part shortages at the heart of these market conditions are likely to take many months, if not years, to resolve, and once resolved, pent-up demand will likely keep car prices high for the foreseeable future.
This situation has left many drivers in older cars when they otherwise would have traded for newer models. Keeping an existing car or truck is simply the right financial decision for many today. This means that maintaining that old car in top shape is more important than ever. Repairs that drivers may have previously passed off to the next owner must now be addressed. Maintenance schedules, too often ignored by owners who intend to trade their cars every couple of years, can no longer be safely dismissed. Preventative services such as fluid flushes, which prolong the useful life of essential vehicle systems, not only keep vehicles running at peak performance, but also have a positive financial return by reducing the risk of breakdowns and costly repairs.
Now is also a good time to consider any upgrades or performance enhancements that could not be previously justified. Vehicle modifications make more sense when a car or truck will be kept for a long time. If a vehicle is going to be in the family for a while, why not make it more attractive and enjoyable to drive? There is no reason an old car has to look old or drive poorly. A new set of custom wheels, a high-performance suspension system, or power-increasing engine components can breathe new life into an old car or truck, making a stale vehicle exciting to drive again.
In these unusual times, it is wise to re-evaluate ones finances and budget, including money spent on personal transportation. Funds that had been budgeted for payments on a new car may now be better slated for properly maintaining and enhancing an older one. Fortunately, such budget adjustments usually lead to financial benefit. Keeping an older car in good condition is generally much less expensive than buying a new one. Life can be quite enjoyable in an old car. Keep it well maintained, invest in some fun upgrades and enjoy the ride. If you also consider buying a new car, visit the link here.
