Some of us like to get a new car every few years. Then, there are those of us who depend on our vehicles for many, many years. We love our cars and we are content to drive them until the wheels fall off. If you are that type of person, then you will want to read this article. These are some tips from Fox Run Auto to help you extend the lifespan of your vehicle and keep it healthy for as long as you own it.
Even if you plan to trade in your car after a few years, you may still want to read this to maximize the vehicle's trade-in/resale value when the time comes.
Here are 10 ways to keep your car running well for many years to come:
1. Oil Changes
This is the most common maintenance service, but it is also the most important. You want to get your oil changed regularly, usually every 3,000-6,000 miles depending on the make, model and age of the vehicle. Oil changes will help keep your engine healthier.
2. Transmission Maintenance
Just like you take care of your engine with oil changes, you also want to maintain your transmission with preventative services. A transmission service isn't needed nearly as often as an oil change (usually more like every 30,000-60,000 miles), but it is equally important. Your transmission filter, fluid and pan gasket should be replaced as needed to prevent costly internal transmission damage.
3. Tire Rotations
Another very common service that is usually performed in conjunction with an oil change is a tire rotation. By rotating the wheels and tires, you will even out the long-term wear and tear caused by driving. No two tires on any vehicle will wear out exactly the same, so periodic tire rotations will help extend the lifespan of all four tires.
4. Engine Air Filter
The air filter helps keep contaminants like dirt, grease and debris out of your engine's air intake system. It should be checked regularly and replaced as needed.
5. Fuel System
Your fuel system also needs maintenance. This may include cleaning the fuel lines or replacing the fuel filter to make sure that the gas entering your engine's combustion chamber is as clean and effective as possible.
6. Cooling System
You also want to make sure your engine's cooling system is taken care of to prevent overheating and potential internal engine damage. The fluid lines, radiator, water pump, fans and belts all play important roles in keeping the engine running at desired temperatures. Get your cooling system inspected at least once a year.
7. Emissions/Exhaust System
Your exhaust and emissions system will also impact the health and performance of your engine, and it can also dramatically affect your vehicle's overall fuel efficiency. Have an emissions specialist repair any exhaust leaks or replace any damaged sensors or components such as the catalytic converter to ensure optimum performance.
8. Check Your Fluids
Your vehicle has many different fluids that keep it running right, including the fuel, engine oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, brake fluid and radiator fluid/coolant (aka "antifreeze"). Check fluid levels and fluid quality regularly. Replace or add the proper fluids as necessary and have the lines flushed if there are flow problems.
9. Brake System
If you take care of your brakes, they will take care of you. We're not only talking about a vehicle that drives safer. Healthy brakes can help with wheel alignment and take less strain off of other components like wheels, axles, tires and the suspension system.
10. Other Preventative Maintenance and Repairs
There are a number of other important preventative maintenance procedures that you can follow. The key word there is "preventative." These automotive care services are designed to prevent problems and keep your car healthier for longer. If damage does occur and problems do happen, it's best to get repairs made as quickly as possible to keep things from getting even worse.
If you follow these steps and take better care of your vehicle, it will last longer and perform well for as long as you own it. For all your Northern Delaware automotive maintenance needs, contact Fox Run Auto today at (302) 597-9205 or schedule your service appointment online.