These days buying a new car is second only to purchasing a home in terms of money spent. You can easily spend $30,000, $40,000 or even $50,000 or more on a new set of wheels, and that high level of investment demands a special level of care.
The number one thing you can do to make your new car last longer is to maintain it properly. The good news is that modern vehicles can easily go for 200,000 or more miles, providing trouble-free service along the way. The bad news is that a lack of maintenance can just as easily destroy the vehicle long before its time – leaving owners on the hook for expensive repairs or an even more costly replacement.
Oil is the Lifeblood of Your Vehicle
Whether the vehicle you drive is fresh off the lot or already has 100,000 miles on the odometer, the number one thing you can do to make the engine last longer is to change the oil. The oil is the lifeblood of your engine, but its ability to filter out impurities and prevent problems goes down over time.
If you are not changing the oil in your vehicle at the recommended intervals, you could be looking at costly engine repairs down the line. By changing the filter in your vehicle, you maintain its ability to remove impurities that would otherwise damage your engine. And by changing the oil regularly, you maintain the lubrication that is so vital to the interior of your car’s engine. If you are looking for one simple thing that can extend the life of your vehicle, look no further than the regular oil change.
You Know Your Car Best
Changing the oil regularly is a good start, but it is not the only form of preventative maintenance you need to do. As the driver, you know your vehicle better than anyone, and you know when something does not seem right.
You know when your vehicle is not running as smoothly as it once was, and that it might be time for a tune-up. Regular tune-ups can smooth out the performance of your vehicle, but changing the spark plugs and wires can also improve your fuel economy, saving you money in the long run.
Know Your Fluids
The fluids in your vehicle can tell you a great deal, and checking them should be part of your preventative maintenance routine. You should check your engine oil and transmission fluid levels at least once a month, topping them off as needed. If you are adding these fluids on a regular basis, you might want to contact your mechanic to identify potential leaks. Addressing the issue quickly can prevent problems down the road.
Keeping a close eye on your vehicle is an important part of extending its life. From changing the oil to checking the fluid levels, the care you give your car will pay off big in terms of extended engine life and lower operating costs. If it is time for your maintenance, make an appointment with us today.