A well-maintained car can last for 250,000 or even 300,000 miles. This is one reason why so many people are buying used autos these days. Even with 100,000 miles on the clock, with the right care and treatment, your used car can easily keep going for another ten or fifteen years. The following five car maintenance tips will help you keep your car in great shape for longer.
Keep Your Fluids Fresh
Various essential fluids such as coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and motor oil are the lifeblood of your vehicle. If motor oil or any of your fluids are allowed to break down too extensively, your car will quickly run into all kinds of trouble.
It’s important to keep a close eye on these fluids and change them often. Check their levels periodically and never miss a scheduled oil or fluid servicing appointment at your local dealership. And if you ever suspect a fluid leak of any kind, it’s safest to avoid driving your car until the leak is found and fixed.
Look After Your Tires
Healthy tires are also essential to the longevity of your car. Improper inflation, worn-down tread depth, or damage to the rubber can put your whole vehicle at risk. Uneven or misaligned tires can reduce your handling and also lead to more serious problems.
It’s important to inspect your tires at least once a month. Make a regular habit of measuring the air pressure in each tire and also checking for cuts, blisters, and other signs of damage.
Keep an Eye on Your Brakes
Along with your tires, the braking mechanism also undergoes a huge amount of stress. Have regular brake inspections and make sure your brake pads never wear down too thin.
Respond to Problems Promptly
Whenever you hear, smell, or feel something unusual from your car while driving, respond to it immediately. Pull over and try to figure out what’s wrong. Have a technician take a look if you’re still unsure.
Ideally, faults should be nipped in the bud early on before they have a chance to develop into something more costly to repair. This is another reason why regular servicing visits are so important.
Know Your Driving Conditions
Not all driving conditions are the same. Some roads, terrains, and driving styles take a greater toll on the health of a car.
If you regularly drive in more severe driving conditions, you can expect your vehicle to need more attention. You’ll need to have servicing checks and fluids changed more often. Examples of severe conditions include steep mountainous roads, heavy stop-and-go traffic, dusty offroad trails, and extremely hot or cold environments.
Visit Own a Car Fresno today to find an excellent used car. Our sterling reputation and great customer service have earned us an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.