Car maintenance is the regular inspection, service, and repair of a car to keep it in good condition. It is essential to care for and maintain your car regularly to avoid costly repairs down the road.
In Guyana, the used car industry is dominant. About 95% (a reasonable estimate) of the cars imported in Guyana in the last two decades are used. This is because the local tax structure is highly prohibitive on importing and owning new vehicles. Most of the cars are imported from Japan and, to a lesser extent, from Singapore. The most popular brands are Toyota, followed by Nissan and Honda. These brands are all popular because they offer a good combination of value, reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. They are also well-suited to the Guyanese market because of the availability of spare parts (also used).
When buying a used car in Guyana, it is important to remember that the market is unregulated. This means there is no guarantee of the quality of the car or the seller’s honesty. It is important to do your research and inspect the car carefully before you buy. Getting a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic is also a good idea. Used cars are imported with about 40,000 to 80,000 KM on the odometer but can provide good service for several years (10 – 15 years) with proper care and maintenance.
How do you care for and maintain your Used Car in Guyana?
The two golden rules are Maintenace and Care!
Car maintenance is the regular inspection, service, and repair of a car to keep it in good condition. It is essential to maintain your car regularly to avoid costly repairs down the road.
- Change the oil and filter regularly. Regularly is relative, and this may depend on the level of use of your vehicle and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Car experts recommend doing an oil and filter change every six months or at 8000 km (whichever comes first). This is one of the most important things you can do to keep your car running smoothly. The oil helps to lubricate the engine and prevent it from overheating. See the ‘Dirty Truth About How Often You Need To Your Oil Changed‘ (link opens in a new tab) for more details.
- Check the tire pressure regularly. Low tire pressure can cause uneven wear and tear on your tires, making it more difficult to control your car.
- Rotate the tires regularly. This will help to evenly wear the tires and extend their life. Tire rotation is simple, and this can be done at home if you have the right tools.
Tire Rotation Diagram
- Check wheel alignment once per year. The roads in Guyana are not the best in the world, and potholes can cause serious damage to your vehicle. A wheel alignment and tire inspection will go a long way to ensure your safety and comfort on the roadways. Gopaul Tire Works (opens in a new tab) is a good place we always use.
- Check the brake pads and rotors regularly. Worn brake pads and rotors can cause your car to brake less effectively. An inspection once every six months is recommended.
- Check the fluid levels regularly. Ensure that the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid are all at the proper levels.
- Take care of the interior and exterior of your car. This will help to keep it looking and feeling its best.
- Store your car in a cool, dry place. This will help to prevent rust and other damage. In Guyana, parking your vehicle under a shaded area is recommended. The sun’s heat can cause damage to the paint and put stress on the interior of components of the car.
By following these tips, you can help keep your car running smoothly and safely for many years. Here are some other general tips that might prove useful.
Some other General Tips
Here are some additional tips that may be helpful:
- Keep a maintenance log. This will help you track when your car is serviced and what work was done. This also helps if you are ever to switch your mechanic.
- Learn how to do some basic maintenance yourself. This can save you money on labor costs. Tire rotation and oil changes can be done at home.
- Find a reputable mechanic. This is someone you can trust to do quality work at a fair price. Sicking to one mechanic is recommended as he will have a historical record of your vehicle, and because he knows that you always use his service, he may be more inclined to pay closer attention to your car.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you don’t understand something, research it online or ask your mechanic to explain it.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your car in good condition and avoid costly repairs.
