Top 5 2018 Car Care Resolutions
Yes, I know, we are 16 days into the new year but to be fair, there were some other blogs from last year that I never posted. So, I wanted to make sure those were out there before I wrote this one. You might be wondering how a new year post would have anything to do with auto glass or windshield, but fear not, this will not be your typical “new year new me” post with cliché resolutions for myself. No, no, this will be a list of resolutions, regarding car care, that I have compiled for you.
#1 – CHANGE YOUR WIPERS
Most of you out there haven’t changed your windshield wipers ever. This is a problem and you need help. Change your wipers at least once a year, before monsoon season. Please.
#2 – WASH YOUR WINDOWS
Please, make 2018 the year of seeing clearly (literally) and clean your car windows. It’s not hard and it takes like 5 minutes. All you need is your favorite glass cleaner, we like Sprayway (not sponsored), and a microfiber cloth. If you are cleaning the inside on tinted glass, use a non-ammonia cleaner, otherwise you’ll damage the tint.
#3 – LEARN TO CHANGE A TIRE
We have a great post about how to change a spare tire. This is a useful thing to know and it is high time we all take steps toward adulthood. If you know how already, then props to you, otherwise go check out our post about how to change a flat. Also, you should really start checking your tire pressure, especially before long drives and ESPECIALLY in the winter.
#4 – AT LEAST BE A LITTLE PREPARED
Previously, in other blog posts, I mentioned different tips and tricks about being prepared. Be it winter, summer, spring, or fall, you should always carry some emergency equipment in your car. Start by putting some matches, flashlight, batteries, water, and basic tools in your car. You can always increase your stash later, but you should at least have those. Oh, and FYI, jumper cables are included in BASIC CAR TOOLS. Hardly anyone carries them anymore, especially younger people…like me.
#5 – CAR WASH ONCE A MONTH
This one, honestly, is just a bonus one for good feels. Personally, I see little point of frequent car washes. Chances are, you live in the suburbs or city and your car doesn’t get THAT dirty. If you live in a rural area, then what’s the point if you are just going to drive down a dirt road again? Regardless, there is almost no better industrial sight than a clear, shiny, new aesthetic car. Therefore, I propose your resolution be to wash your car at least once a month. You have permission to use automatic car washes or hire people, though that will get very expensive. Additionally, you may also skip a month if the weather is just terrible and filled with rain, snow, or frigid temperatures.
Good Luck
Resolutions are hard to keep and anyone who says otherwise either has weak resolutions or is lying. So, if you don’t stick to ALL of these this year (especially the last one), I don’t blame you. Just remember to live your best life and make the most of 2018. Simply because you don’t follow through with everything you had on your resolution list, doesn’t mean the new year has to be crap. Just try to do as much as you can, take one thing at a time, and start with the achievable goals first, like putting a flashlight in your car. Small accomplishments will motivate you to continue working towards the larger goals, like working out or washing your car once a month. Smile and chug on through the new year, celebrating even the small victories.
Happy adventuring and have an excellent 2018!
A: Ben Delamater