Did you know that your old car doesn't have to run like a clunker? Find out how to keep your car in great shape with proper maintenance and auto repair even when it's over the 100,000 mile mark.
Everybody wants to keep their car longer and statistics show that most Americans are. But as a car gets older,
its performance decreases and its need for auto repair increases. Gas mileage starts to sink, oil breaks down faster, seals and gaskets become worn, and the engine just can't take it anymore. If you want to keep your car running like new after the 100,000 mile mark, here are some auto repair tips for keeping it well maintained.
Simple Routine Monthly Checks
There are three extremely simple things that you should do every month without fail. Check your tire pressure, oil level and coolant, and add more if necessary. These are things that only take a minute and they're easy to do. You should do them monthly, but it doesn't hurt to check them every time you fuel up.
Use High Grade Oil And Gasoline
If you're the type of person who always uses the cheapest gasoline and tells yourself you'll get the higher grade next time, stop! A young car might be fine with the cheap stuff, but you've got to treat your old car better if you want it to keep getting you places. Use high grade gasoline and oil.
Routine Oil Changes
Another thing that most people skip out on is the oil change. If you don't get into a steady routine of changing the oil every 3,000 miles or so, your car's not going to make it over the 100,000 mile mark. In fact, it's never a bad idea to change it more often than that. When you change oil, replace the oil filters too. This is also a good time to check windshield washer level and add fuel injector cleaner to the fuel.
Drive It Regularly
If your old car's sitting in the garage most while you zip around in a newer vehicle, make sure you take it out regularly. This is not just to make it feel less lonely; there's a good reason to do it. In an old car that's not driven much, the engine needs to heat up completely once in a while. If not, moisture condenses in the motor oil and it can no longer do its job of lubricating the engine. This will cause the engine to wear down much more quickly. If you don't let the engine heat up, the seals and gaskets will dry out too. Go for a 30 minute drive or so every now and then.
Regular Tune-Ups
Every six months or so, get your car regularly inspected and tuned up. Lots of old car problems are easy to fix if they're caught early, but if you let them go they turn into major disasters. Let some skilled mechanics have a look at it and make any adjustments that need to be made. Also, keep your ears open while driving because your car will tell you when it's not feeling well.
Find A Good Mechanic
As your car gets older, its auto repair needs will increase. Find a good mechanic to handle your auto repair who does quality work and is easy to communicate with. They'll help you keep your car running great even when it's over the hill.
