College life is an amalgamation of studying, handling school assignments, meeting deadlines, making new friends, and sometimes, managing a car.
As a student, you probably know getting from point A to point B quickly and efficiently can often be as crucial as finding reliable paper writing services when you’re swamped with assignments.
For many, a car isn’t just a mode of transportation, it’s a lifeline to the world outside the campus. But how can you make the most of your car while you’re in college?
Here are some essential car hacks that will make your life easier:
Save On Gas and Boost Efficiency
As you progress on the learning path, it’s crucial to develop financial savvy. With the growing cost of fuel, knowing how to drive efficiently can save you a substantial amount of money.
Here is what you can do:
Learn to Coast: Rather than harshly hitting the brakes when you see a red light, begin to coast. It saves on gas and reduces brake wear.
Remove Unnecessary Weight: The heavier your car, the more fuel it uses. Eliminate any unneeded items from your car to keep it light.
Check Tire Pressure Regularly: Tires inflated to the correct pressure can improve gas mileage by up to percent.
Avoid Idling: If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute, switching off the engine at a lengthy traffic signal or train crossing, can conserve fuel.
Plan Your Route: Using GPS to plan the most efficient route can save you time, reduce stress, and cut down on unnecessary fuel use.
Maintenance Hacks
Knowing how to perform basic car maintenance is essential for college students to avoid hefty mechanic bills.
Use Your Smartphone: There are many apps that can help you track your vehicle’s maintenance schedule, oil changes, and tire rotations. Some apps even offer troubleshooting guides.
DIY Windshield Washer Fluid: If you’re out of windshield washer fluid, mix three cups of grain alcohol, two cups of water, and a drop of dish soap.
Check Fluids Regularly: It’s beneficial to familiarize yourself with how to examine your car’s oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and coolant. Regular checks can prevent major problems.
Replace Your Own Air Filter: Changing your car’s air filter is relatively easy, and doing it yourself can save you money.
Tire Rotation: Frequently rotating your tires can extend their durability and enhance your vehicle’s performance.
Cleanliness and Organization
Keeping your car clean and organized can save you time, especially when you’re juggling schoolwork and social activities.
Use a Cereal Container as a Trash Bin: Keep your car clean by using a plastic cereal container lined with a plastic bag as a trash bin.
Organize with a Shoe Organizer: Hang a shoe organizer on the back of the seats to keep your car items (maps, umbrellas, hand sanitizer, etc.) organized and within easy reach.
Car Freshener Hack: Put a few drops of essential oils on a clothespin or a piece of felt and attach it to your air vents for a DIY car freshener.
Car Mat Cleaning: Use a brush and soapy water to scrub clean your car mats. Ensure they are entirely dry before reinstalling them in your car to avoid the formation of mold and mildew.
Keep Wet Wipes Handy: For quick clean-ups and dusting the dashboard, always keep a pack of wet wipes in your car.
Emergency Preparedness
Cars can be unpredictable, and having a few emergency items can be a lifesaver when you’re far from campus.
Car Emergency Kit: Maintain an emergency kit in your vehicle, equipped with a first-aid kit, jumper cables, a flashlight, a multi-tool, a blanket, and some non-perishable snacks.
Know Basic Repairs: Acquire skills like changing a tire, jump-starting your vehicle, and checking your oil level. Numerous online tutorials can guide you through these.
Spare Tire Check: Regularly check the condition and inflation of your spare tire. It’s no good in an emergency if it’s flat or damaged.
Keep Important Numbers Handy: Have the contact numbers of a reliable local towing company and your car insurance provider stored in your phone.
Winter Preparedness: If you’re in a region with harsh winters, add items like a snow brush, ice scraper, cat litter (for tire traction), and warm clothing to your car emergency kit.
Parking Hacks
Parking at college can be a hassle, especially when you’re running late for class. Here is how to make it easier.
Remember Your Spot: Take a picture of your parking spot and any nearby landmarks to help you remember where you parked.
Parallel Parking Hack: When parallel parking, stop moving back when you see the car behind’s license plate in the middle of your rearview mirror.
Parking in Hot Weather: Turn your steering wheel 180 degrees when you park in hot weather. This way, the top won’t be scorching hot when you return.
Use Parking Apps: Several apps are available that can assist you in finding and paying for parking in advance. This can spare you the inconvenience of hunting for a parking spot when you’re pressed for time.
Prevent Door Dings: If you can, park away from other cars and carts to avoid dings and scratches.
College life is all about learning and exploration, both inside and outside the classroom. Your car can play a significant role in this thrilling journey, and these practical hacks can keep it running smoothly and efficiently.
As college students, the key to success often lies in knowing how to manage your resources wisely, whether seeking out the best assignment services for your homework or learning to take care of your car.
Remember, college is as much about personal growth as it is about academic growth, so adopt these hacks to smooth your journey.
Content provided by The Weekly Driver News Service and additional news sources.
Article Last Updated: July 27, 2023.