When you consider the huge amount you can lose from depreciation the moment you drive your new car away from the showroom, it’s easy to see why buying a used car can be seen as such a smart move.
There are lots of great bargains to be had. If you search used cars Nevada, for instance, you can quickly see how feasible it is to get a lot more car for your money when buying used rather than new.
Having gained such a big financial advantage by buying a used car you don’t want to give some of those savings back by not looking after your investment. With the right amount of proper care and maintenance you can significantly extend its life, and potentially save yourself thousands in repair or replacement costs.
The bottom line is that a well-maintained used car can easily keep running for 200,000 miles or more. The secret lies in consistency, carrying out regular maintenance and prompt repairs, as well as treating your car with the respect it needs.
With that in mind, here are some essential tips for prolonging the lifespan of your used car.
Always stick to a strict maintenance schedule
Some car owners tend to view their car’s manual as just a bulky booklet that they can largely ignore. That’s a big and costly error. In fact, the owner’s manual should be viewed as an essential guide for keeping your car in peak condition.
You should always follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and other key services. Skipping routine maintenance might save you money in the short term, but it can lead to costly repairs later.
Remember, regular service keeps your engine running efficiently and prevents wear and tear from turning into serious damage.
Always change the oil and filters regularly
It stands to reason that oil is the lifeblood of your engine. Therefore, dirty or low oil can quickly lead to engine failure.
Always aim to change your oil and oil filter at the intervals recommended for your vehicle’s age and usage, typically every 3,000 to 7,500 miles. At the same time, replace air filters and fuel filters as needed to maintain optimal fuel combustion and engine airflow.
Without a doubt, neglecting these small items can not just impact performance, but shorten your car’s lifespan too.
Don’t be tempted to ignore even small problems
It’s all too easy to become immune to a rattling noise, warning light, or the odd vibration, all of which might seem trivial. However, ignoring these potential warning signs can lead to bigger issues down the road.
That’s why you should address problems when they first appear. A small coolant leak, for example, might just need a hose clamp, but when left unchecked, it could result in a blown head gasket.
Taking care of small fixes at the earliest opportunity prevents them from turning into major, and possibly expensive repairs.
Keep your car clean inside and out Clean
You should be mindful that washing and detailing your car regularly isn’t just about how it looks.
Dirt, road salt, and debris can soon cause rust, especially in colder climates. Washing the undercarriage is particularly important in winter. Inside the car, keeping surfaces clean helps prevent wear, cracking, and fading.
Another advantage of regular cleaning is that it also gives you the chance to inspect for signs of leaks or wear.
It’s wise to use quality parts and fluids
When the time comes for repairs or replacements, don’t go cheap on critical components like brakes, belts, or fluids.
Using manufacturer-recommended parts and high-quality fluids helps your vehicle operate as intended. Cheap oil, off-brand filters, or budget brake pads might save you money at the time, but the payback is that your miserly approach could lead to decreased performance or faster deterioration.
Adopt good driving habits
How you drive your car can have a big impact on how long your car lasts. Hard acceleration, sudden braking, and taking corners at high speeds all put unnecessary stress on your engine, brakes, and suspension.
Another good habit is to always give your car time to warm up on cold mornings. In addition, avoid riding the brakes or idling excessively. On top of that, smooth, defensive driving reduces wear and tear across the board.
Remember to rotate and align your tires
Your tires don’t just help your car move, they also have a big impact when it comes to handling, fuel economy, and suspension wear.
That’s why rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles helps them wear evenly and last longer. Also, proper wheel alignment and balancing ensure that your car drives straight and reduces stress on suspension components.
Regularly check all fluid levels
While oil changes get most of the attention, your vehicle depends on various other fluids that need regular checks and occasional replacement.
Transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant should all be monitored and flushed at the appropriate suggested intervals. Having low or dirty fluids can lead to major mechanical issues that could have been avoided with basic upkeep.
Store your car properly
If your car sits for long periods, whether that’s due to winter storage or because you work from home, it’s important to store it the right way.
If possible, keep your car in a garage. If that’s not feasible, use a car cover to protect the paint and interior from UV damage. A good protective strategy would be to drive your car for at least 20 minutes every couple of weeks, as that helps keep fluids circulating and parts lubricated.
Get to know a mechanic you can trust
Getting to know a reliable mechanic you can trust is one of the best ways to extend the life of a used car. Regular inspections and honest advice help you catch issues early and avoid unnecessary repairs.
A good mechanic will get to know your car’s quirks and help you stay on top of what needs attention and what can wait.
These tips are not rocket science, just basic common sense strategies. With proper maintenance your used car can serve you reliably for years to come.
By taking a proactive approach, your well-maintained used vehicle can provide the performance and reliability you need without the price tag of a new one.
