If you’re like most people, you probably think of car repair and maintenance as an inconvenience. Something that has to be done, but that’s not very much fun. And if you’re concerned about the environment, it can be hard to know how to approach car care in a way that’s both responsible and practical.
“But it’s important to remember that taking care of your car doesn’t have to be a big hassle. There are plenty of ways to keep your vehicle in good condition while also being mindful of the planet”, believes a mobile car mechanic from Punchbowl.
Here are some of the best ways to green up your car care routine.
Most people use a hose to wash their car, and hoses can flow up to 7 gallons of water per minute. So if you wash your car every week, that’s more than 350 gallons of water wasted each year.
Depending on the location you live in, washing your car every other week should be sufficient. In case you live close to the beach or in a dusty area, once a week is probably best.
Plus, the majority of people use detergents or soap when they wash their car, and these chemicals can be harmful to aquatic life if they’re washed into storm drains or lakes.
When washing your car, use phosphate-free soaps and avoid hosing down driveways and sidewalks – let the water run off into the grass instead. A Port Kennedy electrician recently found out that “you can also wash your vehicle at a self-serve car wash that recycles water”.
Keep tires properly inflated – this will improve gas mileage by around 3%.
You can find the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle in the owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door. You can also use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure. The recommended pressure will be printed on the tire itself.
If you need new tires, buy ones made of recycled rubber. When disposing of old tires, take them to a tire recycling facility.
If your car’s battery dies, don’t replace it with a new one – buy a recycled battery instead. Recycled batteries are made of materials that have been salvaged from other batteries. This reduces the need for new battery production, which can be harmful to the environment.
There are a few things to keep in mind when buying a recycled battery. First, make sure the battery is compatible with your car. Second, make sure you get a quality product. There are many scam artists out there who sell low-quality recycled batteries.
“When shopping for a recycled battery, look for a reputable dealer who tests and warranties their products. You should also make sure the battery is properly recycled when it reaches the end of its life”, points out a deck builder from Milton South.
The general rule used to be to change your vehicle’s oil every 5,000km or every 6 months, whichever comes first.
According to Consumer Reports, this is fine for most people. If you make short trips often or do a lot of stop-and-go driving, you may need to change your oil more frequently. You should also use synthetic motor oil, which lasts longer than conventional motor oil and doesn’t degrade as quickly. When disposing of old motor oil, take it to a certified recycling center – don’t pour it down the drain!
Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash
When shopping for car care products, look for those that are biodegradable, nontoxic, and phosphate-free. You can also make your own cleaning products using ingredients like vinegar, lemon juice, and borax.
When it comes to eco-friendly car care products, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are a few of our favorites:
When it comes to car care, there are plenty of ways to go green. By using some of the tips we’ve provided, you can reduce your impact on the environment while still keeping your car looking and running great.
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