Did you know that the average lifespan of a car hovers somewhere around 12 years? According to AARP, this life expectancy has only been growing in recent decades, meaning that you can expect your car to last you for 200,00 miles or more.
Of course, it’s safe to say that knowing how to make your car last longer can help lengthen that lifespan as well!
From understanding what to put in your tank to knowing how to put less stress on your car as you drive, a few simple tactics can help you get more out of your vehicle for longer. Whether you’re fresh from buying a brand-new car or you’re concerned about your used car, here’s what you should know about ensuring a long lifespan for your ride.
Use the Right Parts, Gas, and Fluids
Different cars need different materials to run at their best—and it’s important to be aware of what those materials are. In some cases, grabbing any cheap oil or fuel pump will do more harm than good!
Instead of opting for the cheapest materials, make sure you’ve looked at your owner’s manual to see what the recommended parts, gas, and fluids for your car are. Higher-quality products are designed to help your vehicle last longer, which can make them more affordable than bargain-basement alternatives in the long run!
Don’t Skimp on Oil Changes
Oil is crucial when it comes to maintaining your engine. As noted above, springing for high-quality oil can make a huge difference in terms of your car’s lifespan.
Of course, it’s also important to be aware of when to change your oil. Some car owners only do so when they’ve noticed a problem, and others follow common recommendations like the “every 3,000 miles” rule.
However, the best way to make sure you’re changing your oil as needed is to check your manufacturer’s literature. In addition, get into the habit of replacing your oil filter whenever you change your oil.
Don’t Ignore Distress Signals
Sometimes, taking care of a car is as easy as rushing to fix any issues that pop up!
Whether you’ve noticed an odd knocking sound, an illuminated “check engine” light, or something off with your RPM gauge, don’t ignore it. Failing to address these distress signals can take years off your car’s lifespan, especially if you assume a major problem is nothing to worry about until it’s too late.
Get Regular Maintenance
This tip is probably the most obvious one, but it’s also one many of us tend to ignore. Bringing your vehicle to a professional for regular car maintenance can go a long way, even if you are following all of the best practices above.
Unless you have expertise in maintenance for your specific type of vehicle, it’s always a good idea to have a pro take a look on a regular basis. In the same way that you need an annual doctor’s appointment—even if you don’t have any symptoms—your car needs a periodic check-up as well. Your owner’s manual should have tips on the recommended service schedule for your make and model.
Of course, note that maintaining a car isn’t a task you should give to just anyone. Instead, do your research to find a skilled company with up-to-date training, state-of-the-art tech, and a certified team.
Keep It Clean
You might be surprised to know that washing your car does much more than keep it looking nice. Scrubbing your car on a regular basis can help remove any built-up dirt, which can harm your car’s paint job. This might seem like a cosmetic issue, but damaged paint jobs can allow the elements to corrode the body of the car underneath.
Opt for Additional Protection
In addition to maintenance and general cleanliness, there are a few important things you can do to maintain the exterior and interior of your car, ensuring that you’ll be proud to drive it around for longer.
First, consider investing in paint protection film. This durable film can protect your car against damaging UV exposure, road debris, and even acid rain.
Next, consider getting window tinting. While you might be familiar with window tinting as a way to protect your privacy or your skin from UV rays, it can also help protect your car’s interior. By blocking UV rays, these films can ensure that your upholstery, carpeting, and dashboard won’t fade with exposure to sunlight.
Reconsider Your Driving Habits
It might seem like your driving has little to do with caring for a car, but that’s far from the case! Aside from obvious advice about driving defensively to avoid an accident, there are several things you can do to help increase your car’s lifespan.
- Lighten the load: Carrying less weight can ease the stress on your engine and suspension
- Give it a workout: Driving at medium to high RPM for a short time can help clean out your engine
- Use your parking brake: Your parking brake can reduce stress on your transmission when you park on even shallow inclines
- Warm up: When you start your engine, let your car idle for a minute or so to allow oil to circulate before you begin driving
Get into the habit of following these simple tips every time you take to the road!
Know How to Make Your Car Last Longer
If you want to get more out of your vehicle, it’s important to know how to make your car last longer. The simple tips above may seem like no-brainers, but few people manage to adhere to all of them in the distraction of everyday life. Making it a point to stick to each of these tips can go a long way toward ensuring that you enjoy your ride for years to come!
Looking for more auto and tech tips? Be sure to check out our other content for additional insights.
