There’s no denying that you love your vehicle, but do you show it? Actions speak louder than words and that poor dashboard has heard everything from bad driver complaints to a tone-deaf version of your favorite song. Give back to your abused auto with some bonding time.

Create new memories, add a new feature or consider some aesthetic enhancement. You don’t need to install spinning rims, flame decals and a spoiler to liven up your vehicle’s appearance. Even minor additions like installing seat or steering wheel covers could make a difference. Some excitement toward your vehicle could result in a longer, healthier relationship. Or, at the very least, gain a new-found appreciation of your reliable source of transportation.

Skip a costly flight and hit the open road on your next vacation. Document the landmark pit-stops with silly car/owner photos suitable for Facebook, Twitter and Instagram postings. Change up the routine with a new route for your morning commute. Make the daily drive more relaxing with a freshly cleaned automobile. Breathe in the delicious scent of a fall-inspired air freshener that leaves you craving pumpkin pie and apple cider. Pack up some food, grab a friend for a car-side picnic featuring a view only your vehicle could make possible. Use some of your bonus money to fix that one bad speaker or replace the outdated audio system with a six-disc CD changer and iPod/USB interface. Let the sun shine in with an after-market sunroof or hide those nicks and scratches with a glossy paint job.

Whether it’s maintaining its beauty, installing a new feature or going on spontaneous adventures, you rely on your car more than you realize. So give that four-wheel machine a name and take good care of your hard-earned purchase. Remember, nothing makes a relationship last longer than a lot of love, attention and regular-scheduled maintenance.