The Cost of an Accident vs. Regular Vehicle Maintenance
Life is expensive. There are bills to pay and groceries to buy. No matter how big or small your family is, your expenses are always higher than you’d like.
This can lead you to put vehicle maintenance on the backburner. But there’s a very serious question you need to answer: Is saving a few bucks worth your life? Sounds dramatic but it’s an all-too-important issue.
While driving under the influence and distracted driving are the main causes of accidents, mechanical failures pose a danger as well. Here’s what you need to know.
1. Have your brakes inspected.
It’s no secret that your brakes are one of the most important safety features on your vehicle. Over time, the components wear out and can eventually have an adverse effect on your stopping time.
In an emergency, when every second counts, brakes that are worn down can be dangerous. These are the elements of your brake system that your mechanic will want to take a look at:
- Pads and shoes.
- Rubber seals and hoses.
- Any metal components can rust.
Have them inspected regularly and take care of repairs right away.
2. Make sure your lights are working.
Not only do you need your lights to be working at full strength so you can drive safely in the dark, but you also need to be SEEN by the other vehicles on the road. Regularly inspect your lights, keep them clean and free of debris, and don’t put off replacing a bulb that’s out
Think about the potential for danger if your brake lights aren’t working properly? Turn signals? It’s a recipe for disaster.
3. Get your steering and suspension looked at.
The elements that make up your steering and suspension are prone to wear and tear, just like the rest of your vehicle’s systems.
Here are some of the most dangerous scenarios you could face if your steering or suspension fail:
- Tie rod ends. You will lose control of steering and you could veer off the road or into oncoming traffic.
- Ball joints. Your suspension will collapse and you won’t be able to control your vehicle.
4. Stay on top of your tires.
No pun intended, but there is a lot riding on them. There are several different ways your tires can contribute to an accident if proper maintenance protocols aren’t followed.
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Here’s what you need to be aware of:
- Underinflated tires can overheat and cause a blowout.
- Overinflated tires have less traction than those inflated to the proper pressure.
- Bald spots and uneven wear can make your car harder to control, take longer to stop, and make it easier to hydroplane.
Make sure your tires are inflated to the pressure recommended by your vehicle owner’s manual and that they are regularly inspected by a trusted mechanic.
Don’t risk an accident to save a buck
Your safety and that of your fellow drivers is never worth cutting corners on vehicle maintenance. The cost of taking care of your vehicle will always be lower than that of an accident.
It’s important for you to regularly have your brakes inspected, check your lights, have your steering and suspension looked at, and manage your tire pressure. Remember, you don’t have to go it alone.
Come and see the experienced auto technicians at Conrad’s! We’ll make sure your vehicle’s safe for summer travel.
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