3 Simple Steps to Extend the Life of Your Car
With the cost of everything going up, finding ways to prolong the life of our most valued possessions seems more important than ever. Your car is one of those items that you depend on heavily – and for most of us, purchasing a new car can feel out of reach right now. So, what steps can we take to ensure that our dependable auto has its longest possible life? Just like us, making sure it has a healthy diet of the proper fluids and fuel, while receiving an annual checkup, can go a long way to extending its life with little to no costly repairs along the way.
1. A Healthy Diet
For us, that’s heavy on the fruits and veggies and light on the red meat. For your car, that’s making sure you have regular oil changes, as well as checking the other fluids that keep everything running smoothly. Whether you do it yourself or take it to a trusted mechanic, the oil should be changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.
Similarly, your auto needs other fluids to keep it running well, including for the transmission, brakes, and power steering. These can be done at home, but it may be cheaper – and way less messy – to let a professional take care of it for you.
Always keep records of your oil and other fluid changes. If your car is subject to a recall, you may need proof that you’ve been conducting the required maintenance.
2. Help Your Car to Breathe Better
Your vehicle has 4 important filters that are designed to clean the air your car’s systems need to breathe and operate correctly. Here’s a list and general guidelines on when they should be changed:
- Cabin Filter: Besides making it easier for you to breathe, your cabin filter plays a part in how well your A/C and heating system function. Change every 15,000 to 30,000 miles.
- Air Filter: Helps your car perform better, as well as saving on fuel consumption. Change your air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles.
- Oil Filter: A dirty one lets impurities through which leads to early engine wear and failure. Change around every 6,000 miles.
- Fuel Filter: Helps keep the fuel pump (and the engine) working smoothly. Change around every 20,000 to 150,000 miles (more often if your car is older).
3. Be Familiar with Your Owner’s Manual
While we’re not advocating that you read it cover to cover (unless you really like to read manuals), spending some time on these areas will save you time and money: understanding recommendations such as tire pressure, maintenance schedules, and types of oil to use. As with most of our valued possessions, the better we take care of them, the longer they last and take care of us. Taking care of your car also means handling it with care. Sudden starts and stops, or driving like you’re a NASCAR star, won’t help your car to live a long and healthy life. So, give your car a little love and you’ll get a dependable ride in return.
Tire Pressure
Your tire pressure will fluctuate according to seasonal changes. If you live in an area with hard freezes, you will likely see the need to add air more frequently, as cold air causes tire pressure to drop. In the summer, hot temps can cause the air in your tires to expand, causing more wear and tear. Learning how to use a tire pressure gauge correctly will go a long way in keeping your tires safe during the whole year.
Maintenance Schedules
Your car is a fine-turned machine and just like the strings on a violin or guitar, it needs regular tuning, or maintenance, to stay in top shape. You don’t have to turn to a mechanic for some of these regular items – you can do them yourself. Some of the more extensive maintenance items, such as replacing belts, may need the attention of a certified mechanic. You can help by regularly checking your headlights, turn signals and other important lights, maintaining your tire pressure, checking your filters and replacing your wipers when necessary. These essential maintenance tips will keep you on the road longer.
Car Oil
There are so many different types of oil on the market, it can be confusing to know which one to use. Your vehicle manufacturer has the preferred type listed in your manual, so the question is really how often you should get your oil changed. It used to be every 3,000 miles, but with today’s vehicles, it is not a one-size fits all answer anymore. Many people also drive newer vehicles, such as hybrids, that require a different type of oil and schedule.
Extend the Life of Your Car with Affordable Auto Insurance
Taking good care of your car or truck makes sense if you want it to last. At Freeway Insurance, we want to help you find affordable insurance to protect yourself and your car financially. You can get a fast and free quote online, give us a call at 800-777-5620 or stop by one of our convenient locations anytime for a face-to -face meeting.
