City driving can be both a convenience and a challenge. It’s just a matter of time and location. Traffic is one of the most unpleasant experiences that any driver in the city have to go through. Yet, they are inevitable as well.
But how about accepting the same and planning accordingly rather than giving in to the situation? There is a smart way out of the chaos of traffic that keeps both the driver and vehicle happy. Let’s uncover the same here.
Tips to Keep Car Ready for Traffic
Here is how to keep both your car and yourself happy in the traffic:
- Get the Car Checkup
This is the most important point always emphasised, regardless of the scenario. Regular checkups allow proper functionality of each car component in a variety of anticipated and unanticipated situations. The focus must be automobile engine oil, tire conditions like pressure, brake, engine health, different types of car fluid and others. Changing the required ones or taking timely actions prevent getting stuck in the traffic or having a large impact on your pocket.
- Avoid Tailgating
It refers to driving too closely behind another vehicle. The impact can be easily understood, which includes increased risk for sudden collisions and jerky declarations, apart from causing stress to you and other drivers. Avoiding tailgating offers increased reaction time, ensuring better assessment of surroundings and eventually taking action. Smooth acceleration and deceleration further improve fuel efficiency.
- Perform Defensive Driving
Impatiently following vehicles in heavy traffic results in frequent usage of brakes. The consequence is an increase in harm to brakes and an increase in accident risks. The driver must follow a three-second gap between the front parked vehicle. If you need a sudden brake, go with an alternate option of slowing down and increasing the space behind the new car.
Also, avoid aggressive driving. It includes moving in and out of traffic, excessive speeding and other such actions. The result is a strain on multiple car parts such as engine, suspension, tires and others, decreasing the efficiency of the car in the long run.
- Have Alternate Tire Ready
The last problem you want to encounter with traffic is a flat tire. While checks include assessment for proper functionality, situations can get unpredictable at times. The presence of another tire not only eases the problem but also minimises downtime and avoids dangerous driving.
- Avoid Overheating the Engine
Engine overheat is another common possibility during traffic. Also, it is an easy point to prevent engine wear and tear and save fuel. Running the engine idle for a long time results in strain on the important components of the vehicle and leads to overheating. Shutting down the engine if the traffic is stationary is an optimal action to take.
- Invest in Quality Components
Frequently facing the traffic unwantedly leads to pressure on the vehicle and its components. The low-quality parts will wear off quickly, adding to the strain on the pocket as well. Investing in quality components will be a one-time expenditure that offers a solution for the long run.
- Benefit From Car Features
Rather than focusing on the vehicles surrounding you, it is recommended to make use of car features intelligently. Analysing the indicators, hazard lights, pass lights, rearview mirrors and horns of other cars and simultaneously using the same in yours is essential. Also, focus on the brake lights of the vehicle ahead of you.
Conclusion
Traffic is undoubtedly frustrating and time-consuming. But rather than letting emotions take on you, a calm mindset and strategic planning can help you get out of the situation smoothly. To ensure the same, proper planning is the key. Analyse if the traffic is an everyday issue for you or is faced at certain times and take action accordingly.
Also, do focus on the mentioned tips to ensure the longevity of the vehicle without any damage from the traffic. Perform regular checkups and maintenance while also choosing the right oil, such as 15W40 engine oil, depending on the conditions and vehicle. It helps in dealing effectively with the scenario.
