Your car’s odometer is a critical component of your automobile. It communicates the total number of miles your vehicle has been driven in its lifetime. When this number grows, so does the amount of wear and tear on your car’s engine, transmission, brakes, tires and other parts. Keeping your car well maintained is the best way to ensure a long life for your high mileage vehicle.
To make sure that your high mileage vehicle is running safely and efficiently, here are a few simple tips:
1. Keep Following the Manufacturer’s Maintenance Schedule
As long as you’re still using your car, you should be following the manufacturer’s specified maintenance schedule. For most manufactures, this should be done at least once a year or after 12,000 miles of driving, whichever comes first. The service schedule will often include regular oil changes, tire rotations and brake inspections. These routine services are important for prolonging the life of your car’s engine and other components. You should also be sure to replace your spark plugs, air filters and other components as indicated in the service manual.
2. Inspect and Replace Worn Parts
As your car accumulates more miles, some of its parts may need to be replaced sooner than expected. For example, if you’ve driven about 35,000 in urban settings or over 80,000 miles on the original set of brake pads, then it may be time to replace them. You should also keep an eye on your wheel bearings for signs of wear. If you detect any problems with these components, have them repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Sometimes, replacing worn parts like a broken side mirror will be after minor accidents. Some individuals will replace the seat covers, floor mats, and more just to give their car an updated look.
3. Use High-Quality Fluids and Filters
You need to pay close attention to the types of fluids you use in your car. It’s important to always use the manufacturer-recommended type for oil, coolant and transmission fluid. You should also make sure to use high-quality filters that meet or exceed the original equipment specifications whenever possible.
4. Maintain Tires Properly
Proper tire care is essential for keeping your car running safely and efficiently. This includes regularly checking the air pressure in all four tires and inspecting the tread for signs of wear. If you’re unsure how much pressure is required for your tires, check the manufacturer’s specifications or look for a label inside the driver’s side doorjamb. You should also make sure your tires are rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles and the alignment checked at least once a year.
5. Wax Your Vehicle Regularly
Regular waxing of your car is a great way to protect its exterior finish and prevent rust from forming. Make sure to clean the surface of your vehicle thoroughly before applying any type of wax or sealant. This will help ensure that the wax bonds properly with the paint and prevents contaminants from entering the finish.
6. Replace Filters and Belts Regularly
Your car’s air, fuel and cabin filters should be replaced regularly according to your vehicle’s service schedule. This will help maintain the efficiency of your engine and ensure that your car is breathing clean air. It’s also important to check the condition of any belts in your car and replace them if they show signs of wear or cracking.
7. Take Care of the Battery
It’s important to maintain your car’s battery to ensure that it has enough power to start the engine. Make sure to clean off any corrosive deposits on the terminals and check them for tightness. You should also make sure that your vehicle is equipped with a quality battery charger and keep it charged at all times when not in use. Replace the battery after it has served its time (usually 3 to 5 years).
8. Treat the Engine With Care
When driving, keep your engine revs as low as possible and avoid pushing it too hard. This will help reduce wear on the pistons, valves and other components of your car’s engine. It’s also important to warm up your car before driving by letting the engine run for a few minutes. This will help circulate the fluids and ensure that all of your car’s components are properly lubricated.
9. Keep Your Car Clean
Regularly cleaning the interior and exterior of your car can help maintain its value and extend its life. Make sure to vacuum or shampoo the carpets, clean out the vents, scrub any dirt off the exterior, and wax it regularly. Spot clean the exterior especially when you notice bird poop or tree sap as they can cause damage to the paint of your car. This will help keep your vehicle looking good for years to come.
Contact Lake Elsinore Honda for Service and Maintenance of Your Car
By following these tips and making sure that your car is well maintained, you can help to ensure a long life for your high mileage vehicle. Taking the time to inspect and replace worn parts or fluids as needed will also go a long way in keeping your car running safely and efficiently. Remember, preventing problems now can save you money down the road.
If you need help maintaining your high mileage vehicle, contact the service experts at Lake Elsinore Honda. Our team of highly trained technicians can provide you with quality maintenance and repair services for all makes and models of cars. From oil changes to engine repairs, we’re here to keep your car running smoothly no matter what. Call us today for more information.
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