The implementation of Community Activity Restrictions (PPKM) requires most people to work from home, thereby reducing the intensity of using cars as a means of mobility. A car that has not been used for a long time has the potential to reduce its performance in the long run.
According to Hariadi, Asst. To Service Dept. Head of PT Suzuki Indomobil Sales (SIS), cars that have not been used for a long time still require attention and care. Several maintenance methods can be carried out by car owners at home. Besides being easy to do, caring for a car at home is also beneficial for maintaining car performance and filling time through positive activities. Here are 9 light car care tips that are worth trying at home:
Warm up the machine regularly
Cars have many components whose parts must always be properly lubricated, especially the engine parts. Therefore, heating the car engine needs to be done regularly with a range of once a few days. This activity can also be carried out while ensuring other conditions such as sound or vibration are generated so that it can detect earlier if there are irregularities.
Check the cleanliness of the engine room area
Even though it is equipped with a hood as a protective part for the engine room area, we can often find dirt or foreign objects getting into it, such as dry leaves, animal waste, and other rubbish. Such dirty conditions will gradually affect the performance and safety of the engine room. So, you should check the condition around the engine room area and clean it if necessary.
Observe the situation in the area under the car
Parts that are rarely monitored, such as the area under the car, also need attention. The easiest way is to observe the side of the floor where the car is parked, especially at the bottom of the engine room. If no liquid drops fall to the floor, such as engine oil, brake fluid, radiator coolant, or other fluids, this means that the car is in good condition. However, if there are drops, first make sure the type of liquid and immediately consult the official workshop.
Rotate the tires a short distance
A car that has been parked for too long has a load that must be borne by all four tires, so that it can cause problems such as flat tires or a tire surface that is flat on only one side. Avoiding this, it would be better if the car owner took the time to drive his car around the residence with a short distance. Car tires will rotate properly and easily.
Note the parking location
Providing protection for your favorite car is not only done for the engine and wheels, but also for the exterior which has a very large portion of the vehicle's visuals. The main step is choosing a safe parking location, for example avoiding parking under a tree. Even if it's shady, trees can pose risks such as dripping sticky sap so that the branches fall, causing scuffs on the car's paint.
Wash the exterior
Cars that are parked at home can also be exposed to dust or dirt. Therefore, wash the exterior of the car regularly. In addition, immediately remove traces of dirt or sticky sap. Thus, the appearance of car paint will be well maintained and interesting to look at
Keep the interior space clean and fresh
The cleanliness and freshness of the aroma of the cabin space really supports a positive mood when driving. After cleaning the exterior, it is best to take care of the interior by removing any remaining trash inside the car, cleaning the interior panels, and if necessary vacuuming using a vacuum cleaner regularly. Spraying the cabin using disinfectant liquid after traveling is also needed at this time, especially to provide a sense of security and comfort.
Make sure the fuel at sufficient capacity
Make it a habit to leave the car with sufficient fuel capacity, such as half of the maximum capacity of the fuel tank. This will be useful if you want to use the car at any time, so you don't need to spend a longer trip just because you have to refuel first.
Write it down and call the emergency number
Unexpected events can occur at any time, so as a car owner it is necessary to record and call emergency telephone numbers, such as the Halo Suzuki call center at 0800-1100-800 which is ready to provide service when consumers need assistance, experience problems or complaints.
