200,000 Miles And Counting: How to Extend Your Car’s Life

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Record inflation levels are hitting Americans’ wallets from all sides. Finding room in the budget for significant purchases like new vehicles is becoming a pipe dream for many, with people holding onto their used cars longer. 

But how do you extend the life of your vehicle and keep it running as long as possible?

Avoid long road trips

As cars get older long road trips can take a toll on the vehicle’s engine and exhaust system. In addition, the excessive mileage of long road trips impacts the cars’ resale value. 

For these reasons, many car owners use an auto transportation service to save their vehicles from the wear and tear of these types of trips. 

Complete routine maintenance

Keeping up with oil and fluid changes and completing necessary repairs, such as fixing your tail lights, is critical to maintaining your car. 

Routine maintenance lets you spot minor issues before they become complex problems with substantial price tags. 

Don’t ignore a check engine light

Few things strike fear in a car owner’s heart like suddenly seeing a check engine light illuminated on the dashboard. This anxiety is primarily due to not knowing if the light means that your car needs a $20 quick fix or a $2000 engine overhaul. 

While ignoring the check engine light may be tempting, don’t brush off this warning. These lights provide valuable information about the inner workings of your car. It’s easier to learn why the light is on than to be stranded due to a vehicle breakdown.

Avoid aggressive driving habits

Riding your brakes, hard stopping, hitting potholes, and other aggressive driving habits can leave their mark on your car. Over time, these behaviors negatively impact nearly every system in the car, ruining your engine and the car’s suspension.

Keep an eye on your tires

Quality tires are an investment in the longevity of your car while providing a smoother riding experience. Good tires will also save you money on gas because they increase fuel efficiency and have a longer lifespan than lower-quality tires. 

Practice routine tire maintenance by keeping the tires properly inflated and avoiding road hazards. Following the manufacturer’s recommendation for tire rotation will keep them in great shape for as long as possible. 

Be on the alert for wobbling or other signs that your tires need balancing to ensure good wear on the treads.

Appearance counts

Keeping your car clean both inside and out helps maintain the value of your vehicle. Not allowing debris to accumulate in the car’s interior protects the fabric and resists stains. 

You can help protect the exterior by keeping your vehicle in a garage to protect the paint from fading in the sun.

Wrapping up

Taking simple steps to extend the life of your car is an excellent way to protect your investment. Whether your vehicle is new or you’ve had it for a few years, you want it to take you as far as possible.

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