Car maintenance tips during lockdown for Car Insurance

The pandemic has restricted your car's movement to a limit, as it mostly remains idle in the parking lot. In addition, the work-from-home culture and regular lockdowns are resulting in fewer vehicles on the road. If the car is used regularly, the probability of mechanical issues arising minimizes. Cars are ultimately machines, and if machines are not functioning for a continued period, they face breakdowns.

Surely you won't want your car to cause any problem during the lockdown. Invest in online car insurance to ensure recovery of financial expenses or losses regarding your vehicle. So, what steps should you follow to ensure that your car is always in a working state? Here is the answer to this question:

1. Spot a safe place to park your car –

The most important part is to park your car in a place that is safe and well-lit. The vehicles parked without proper safety can catch the eyes of thieves to grasp a chance to steal them away. Never leave your car in the open, and try to park it in fenced areas or boundaries to ensure total security. The next step is to place a vehicle cover over your car properly. A vehicle cover reduces exposure of your vehicle to direct sunlight, rain, dust, and bird droppings. It protects the paint of the car and also provides additional security from the eyes of thieves.

2. Keep your car in gear –

Avoid using your car's handbrake if you are going to leave it idle for long. Instead, please keep it in gear; this will prevent the handbrake from getting jammed. Also, what you can do is simply adjust a stone or a brick as wheel-blockers near your car's tires. And, if you have an automatic transmission, then leave your car in the parking mode.

3. Watch out for the battery's charging –

Usually, a car's battery discharges if the vehicle is idle for a longer time. This can be an annoying situation because the battery needs to be functional to start the car on the first go. To avoid this situation from happening:

• Ensure that you start your car once every four to five days.
• Give ignition and gently give acceleration to heat up the engine so that the battery receives charging.
• Periodically check your car's battery, and disconnect the negative terminal if possible to avoid loss of battery charge.

4. Your car must be clean –

May it be lockdown or not, keeping your car clean should also be a priority. There are chances of accumulation of bird droppings, dust, small insects, and dry leaves. If you do not wash your car regularly, these dirt elements will start damaging your car's paint. The body of the car needs attention to avoid scratches and maintain its appearance. Not just the body but the interior of the vehicle needs regular cleaning. The AC vents, blowers, seats, and the base of the car should be remain dust-free.

5. Monitor the levels of fluids –

Regular monitoring of various fluid levels should be on your maintenance checklist. Try to read the fluid level indicators to get a rough idea and refill the fluid showing a lower level. Fluids like coolant, engine oil and brake oil need to be present in sufficient quantities. Also, ensure that there is no leakage of any of the fluids mentioned above. If you encounter any issue, fix it as soon as possible, or call a car mechanic.

6. Check the fuel –

You should fill the fuel tank of your car to its maximum capacity. During an emergency, the value of fuel can be understood. Also, check if the tank's lid is closed tightly, otherwise, air might escape into the tank. Air can initiate the oxidation process and result in the tank rusting.

7. Keep the tyre pressure stable –

It is essential to maintain the air pressure in the tyres of the car. Tyres should be inflated for a smooth ride whenever required. If your vehicle is standing still for a longer time, then the pressure releases out of the tyres. Deflation in tyres can develop cracks in tyres.

8. Check the exhaust –

Try to cover your car's exhaust to avoid uninvited guests into your vehicle like rats or insects. You can insert a small log or a cloth to block the opening of the exhaust. 

These were a few tips that can help you to maintain your car even during the lockdown. In addition to it, always remember to have a valid insurance for your vehicle and Health insurance for you. Now, buying an insurance policy has become so convenient that you can get it online quickly. You can compare various car insurance plans and their features, premium amounts and finalize online car insurance suitable for your vehicle. Moreover, insurances can cover a significant portion of your finances that may drain if your car faces a breakdown or any mechanical fault during the lockdown. So buy your ideal online car insurance today for a secure tomorrow.

Also read : What is Better? Petrol or Diesel Car for Car Insurance