Vehicles are pricey these days. As such, consumers can feel like they’re spending arms and legs buying new or pre-owned rides. Some people trade in their cars every few years, but others refuse to take that route. Instead, they do everything in their power to ensure their vehicles last forever after spending their hard-earned cash. Of course, the cost of a car might not be the only reason you prefer this approach.
Maybe you are sentimentally attached to your car. Perhaps it was handed down to you by someone close who passed away, and you want to drive it every day to remind you of them. Or do you believe modern vehicles are a bit too complex? If that’s the case, keeping an antique or classic car in stellar shape may turn into a top priority.
It doesn’t really matter why you wish for your car to last forever—the point is you do. Therefore, you’ll need to know the best way to make sure that happens. Of course, people easily differ about the best way, depending on who you ask. But don’t be surprised if one or more of these methods turns up during a conversation. To begin with, why not invest in a used car warranty to make your vehicle last forever without the repairs leaving you broke?
What Is a Vehicle Service Contract?
Used car or extended car warranties are also called vehicle service contracts. People purchase these policies to save money on auto repairs. The plans typically go into effect after manufacturer warranties expire. Then, policyholders pay predetermined deductibles for services when issues arise, shops fix their rides, and the warranty companies pick up the rest of the tab.
By obtaining a service contract, you won’t have to worry about finding the money to fix your car when problems occur. In turn, your local shop can help the machine last you forever.
1. Change the Oil
You need to make it a point to regularly change the oil in your car. Oil lubricates internal engine components to keep them moving freely. Eventually, the substance can break down and not effectively lubricate. If that happens, pieces may seize, malfunction, and fail. Then, expensive repairs set in. For instance, if the motor throws a rod and needs to be replaced, that could cost you thousands of dollars at a local mechanic shop.
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Hence, change the oil and filter in your vehicle as the manufacturer recommends. That was typically at around every 3,000 miles in the past, but this has changed over the years because of oil breakthroughs. Now, most car makers suggest replacing your engine’s oil at 7,500 to 10,000-mile intervals.
Look in your owner’s manual to determine when to change your oil. It should contain this and other maintenance information within its pages. Just know that clean engine oil travels throughout the motor smoothly and reduces friction. Thus, change your oil as necessary because that can extend your car’s life.
2. Keep an Eye on Other Fluids
Oil isn’t the only fluid that an engine needs to function correctly. For example, there is also a coolant in the radiator. It flows throughout different systems and components to keep them from overheating. Antifreeze is another essential liquid that must be checked regularly. It sometimes varies, but it is usually recommended to check the coolant level every two weeks.
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Often, this can be done by looking at the coolant reservoir’s marks. However, you might also have to remove the radiator cap to accomplish the feat. If that is the case, always allow the motor to cool down first, as you may receive burns by opening a hot radiator. Other liquids to keep an eye on include:
- Transmission fluid
- Windshield washer fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Brake fluid
Simply checking these substances isn’t enough, though. You will also need to replenish them when they get low. That will give your car the chance to last you forever. Plus, who knows? You may even be able to pass it along to someone else after you pass away, probably to serve them well for years.
3. Look at Your Tires
It’s also a good idea to check the tread on your tires every two weeks. If that’s too challenging, you can inspect the tread at every fill-up. To do that, place a penny into the track with the head down. If the tread covers most of the president’s head, your tires should be in excellent shape. But if most of the head is showing, it’s probably time to get some replacement tires.
Don’t forget to look for uneven wear because that could indicate a problem too. For example, that might suggest something with the alignment is off. If that’s the case, you won’t want to leave the matter as-is because that might cause a piece to break. Then again, you may wreck it from losing control. Either scenario could make your car could go kaput instead of lasting forever.
Some Final Words
If you are all about making your car last forever, sitting around and hoping for the best likely isn’t the best solution. Instead, you’ll need to take preventative measures to ensure all systems remain in excellent condition. So, use these tips and advice you’ve learned over the years to keep breakdowns at bay.
