Image of someone driving in the winter

Your Car’s New Year’s Resolutions for 2023!

It’s 2023 and our team at Grandcity Autobody want to wish you a Happy New Year! We hope this coming year brings you happiness, success, good fortune, and minimal car troubles. To help you stay safe this year, we think 2023 is the perfect time to make some New Year’s resolutions, not just for you, but for your car as well. Sure, hitting the gym three times a week is a great way to take care of your body. But what are you doing to take care of your auto body? From driving habits to car care, if you’re looking for a touch of auto inspiration, here are some resolutions you can add to your list this year:

1. Be More Attentive

We all like to think we’re above average when it comes to our driving skills. And while that may be the case for you, a little reminder to pay extra attention on the road is never a bad thing. To increase your sense of awareness on the road, make a point to be more alert while driving. Put your phone in the glove box, keep both hands on the steering wheel, and keep your eyes on the road and mirrors.

2. Take a Driver’s Class

Looking to minimize your need for auto body repair? Take a refresher driver’s course or learn new skills entirely by signing up for a high-speed lesson on a racetrack. It’s never too late to learn and in this case, it could be incredibly fun as well. Practicing high speed racing is not only a rush, but it can also help you better navigate emergency situations and make you a more confident, skilled driver all round.

3. Use Your Turn Signals

They’re there for a reason! In 2023, don’t neglect the power of a timely turn signal. Proper usage of turn signals can keep you and other drivers safe, while also preventing the road rage that turns respectable drivers into chaotic ones.

4. Stay in Your Lane

This year, why not up your road etiquette and choose lanes responsibly. If you’re passing drivers on the road, the fast lane – typically the farthest lane to the left – is your rightful place. However, if you’re the one getting passed, the right lane for you is quite literally, on the right. Sticking to your proper driving lane can prevent collisions and improve road safety overall. Not to mention, it’ll minimize the dirty looks and aggravated honks from surrounding drivers.

5. Move Your Spring Cleaning to Winter

Is the trunk of your car filled with summer gear? Perhaps your glove box is stuffed with old receipts, empty chip bags, and tissues. No matter the type of clutter you have, give yourself a fresh start this year and rid your vehicle of junk. Not only will this improve your driving experience, clearing excess weight from your car could lead to better fuel mileage.

6. Catch Up on Maintenance

Life gets busy and it becomes increasingly easier to forego your regular car maintenance appointments. Rather than procrastinate your way through 2023, start checking things off your list:

  • Tire Pressure and Tread. Your tire pressure naturally decreases in cold weather and the harsh climate can be tough on your tread. So, now is the perfect time to give your car tires a little TLC.
  • Fluids. From transmission and power steering to coolant, brake, and windshield wiper fluid, check the levels of your engine and give a top up if necessary.
  • Brake Pads. The New Year is an ideal time to check your brake pads as these are especially important throughout winter.
  • Battery. The cold weather can wreak havoc on your car battery. Double check your battery is in good health by using a multimeter if you have one or bringing your vehicle into a mechanic.

7. Help Your Car Look It’s Best

This year, treat yourself to a smooth, dent-free, perfectly painted auto body. If you’re feeling like a change in the New Year, there’s nothing better than a fresh coat of car paint. As the most reliable and competitively priced auto body shop in Vancouver and Richmond, we can make your car look like new. Contact our team at Grandcity Autobody for auto body repair, car painting, dent removal, and more.