As a new car owner, it’s important to remember that your vehicle is a significant investment that requires proper care and maintenance. While some driving habits may seem harmless, they could actually cause damage to your vehicle over time. In fact, certain driving habits could lead to costly auto repairs down the line. Here are a few driving habits that could damage your vehicle. 

What Driving Habits Can Damage Your Vehicle?

1. Riding the Brakes 

Riding the brakes refers to keeping your foot on the brake pedal while driving. This can create excessive wear and tear on your brake pads and rotors, as well as cause your brakes to overheat, which could lead to brake failure. To avoid this, try to coast more often and only use your brakes when necessary. This will not only help preserve your brakes but also improve your fuel efficiency. 

2. Ignoring Warning Lights 

When a warning light illuminates on your dashboard, it’s important to address the issue promptly. Ignoring them could lead to more serious issues down the line, resulting in costly auto repairs. For example, if your check engine light comes on, it could be due to a minor issue such as a loose gas cap or a more serious issue such as a faulty oxygen sensor. When the light comes on, it’s important to take your vehicle to a trusted auto repair shop as soon as possible to diagnose and fix the issue. 

3. Overloading Your Vehicle 

Many people have the habit of overloading their vehicle with heavy items such as luggage or equipment. This habit could cause damage to your suspension system, which is responsible for supporting the weight of your vehicle. Overloading your vehicle could also cause your tires to wear down faster and increase your risk of a blowout. To avoid this, be mindful of your vehicle’s weight capacity and avoid overloading it with heavy items. 

As a new car owner, it’s important to be mindful of your driving habits to avoid causing damage to your vehicle that leads to costly auto repairs. If you do need auto repair services, contact H & S Tire & Auto Center in Wentzville, MO. Visit their website to see their wide range of services that can keep your vehicle running smoothly, or call (636) 327-5225 to schedule an appointment.