Aussie dad’s warning after buying a car on Facebook Marketplace and making a crucial mistake that cost him $7000
TYRES:
The best safety and performance option for your car are good tires.
They not only help with braking, but also with acceleration and cornering.
A recommended tire pressure is listed for your car. Make sure you stick to it.
Your local tire shop can check your tires for you and rotate them to get the best wear.
Also consider having a wheel alignment performed if you have a used car, to ensure it is adjusted correctly and safely.
For daily use I use Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tires and for my weekend cars I use Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.
Blair Joscelyn (pictured right) and his Mighty Mods co-host Marty (left) have had over a billion views on their YouTube channel
OIL:
Oil is the lifeblood of your car and is easy and cheap to replace.
You can learn to do it yourself or you can stick to the maintenance booklet and ensure this is done regularly with your local mechanic.
As long as you check and change the oil and filter regularly, your car should last for years to come.
You may be able to save a few dollars by purchasing the oil and filter for your car yourself and leaving it in the car for your mechanic to use at your next service.
I use Castrol Edge exclusively in all my cars.
TO WASH:
Washing your car covers many important areas.
It not only keeps your car looking good, but also removes contaminants and insects that can damage your paint.
More important than that, however, is the buildup of debris that can block drain areas and cause your car to leak.
Remove leaves and mud from your car as you see it.
Also be sure to check and wash all rubber seals around the windows and trunk liner.
Washing your car is also a good opportunity to keep your eyes on tire wear and general maintenance.
TOOLS:
If you’re handy, a decent tool kit and service manual for your car are invaluable.
A quality tool kit will last a lifetime and can save you thousands of dollars on repairs.
Sure, you can take it to your local mechanic, and often this is the best idea for larger jobs, but there are many things you can learn to fix yourself by watching YouTube videos and talking to other owners.
A good toolbox is invaluable.
DRIVING SCHOOL:
The best money you can spend is learning to drive.
Most people never push their car’s limits on a race track or skid pan.
Learning how to swerve in an emergency, make emergency stops and experience the feeling of ABS makes better drivers.
Being a better driver means being more aware and increasing the chances that you and your car will make it home in one piece.
Check out the driving courses in your area and do yourself a favor and book a lesson.
It’s also a lot of fun!
Blair is the co-creator of the globally popular YouTube channel Mighty car mods with his mate Marty and a presenter from Top Gear Australia.
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