There was a time when a car that was approaching 100,000 miles was considered to be on its last legs; today, it’s not at all uncommon to see vehicles that have reached 200,000 miles or more.
Each year, cars are becoming better designed and more dependable—and with economic conditions and rising interest costs, more people are choosing to hold onto high-mileage vehicles than ever before. In fact, the median age of most cars and light trucks on the road is 12.2 years old.
So, what’s the secret to keeping your vehicle going strong well over 200,000 miles? While the make and model may play some role, in most cases, it all comes down to regular maintenance.
How to Maintain a High-Mileage Vehicle
It might surprise you to learn that a vehicle is considered “high mileage” once it hits 75,000 miles. However, age can also be a factor because older models need more frequent maintenance than newer vehicles to run smoothly. Although all maintenance is important and should be performed at the recommended intervals, here are a few of the most essential services for high-mileage cars.
- Oil changes: That’s right—routine oil changes are one of the best ways to keep your engine in good condition and help your car run well for as long as possible. Be sure to follow the service intervals listed in your owner’s manual; we can also look it up for you. After your car has reached the 75,000-mile mark, ask your service advisor whether your vehicle would benefit from switching to a high-mileage motor oil.
- Checking the Fluids: To ensure all your automotive systems are running well, it’s important to keep the transmission fluid, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluids clean and topped off. If they become dirty or contaminated, have the fluid replaced. Also, it’s very common for older vehicles to develop leaks, so it’s a good idea to get into the habit of checking your fluid levels at home. This will help you learn what’s normal for your vehicle and alert you to potential leaks.
- Belts, Hoses, and Filters: There are numerous belts, hoses, and filters in your vehicle; these should be inspected regularly and replaced as needed.
- Belts, Hoses, and Filters: There are numerous belts, hoses, and filters in your vehicle; these should be inspected regularly and replaced as needed.
- Check Your Tires: Having well-maintained tires reduces strain on the rest of your vehicle and extends the life of your suspension. More importantly, it also keeps you safe on the road! Check your tire pressure at least once a month and have your tires rotated on a regular basis. While checking your tire pressure, keep an eye out for cracks, bulges, punctures, or other types of damage that could compromise your safety and lead to blowouts. If the tread looks low or there’s visible damage, replace your tires as soon as possible.
- Battery Care: Car batteries last an average of 3-5 years, but keeping your battery maintained will help you get the most life out of it. If any corrosion has developed, it should be cleaned. After your battery reaches 3-4 years old, it’s also a good idea to have it tested periodically; this will help you determine when to replace it and help you avoid getting stranded. If you have a vehicle that’s stored in a garage for long periods, you may also want to consider using a trickle charger to keep your battery fully charged.
- Fuel System Cleaning: When the fuel injectors become partially clogged with carbon, your engine isn’t able to receive the right mixture of air and fuel. This can cause a variety of performance issues, but more importantly, it puts excessive strain on the engine management system. A fuel system cleaning, typically recommended every 60,000 to 90,000 miles, will help your car run smoother and be more fuel efficient.
- Wash and Wax Your Car: As your car ages, you may not be as concerned about its appearance, but it’s still important to maintain the paint. Washing and waxing will help prevent rust and other types of corrosion that can damage the structure of your vehicle and compromise its safety.
Quality Auto Care for Your High-Mileage Vehicle
By following the above tips, you can keep your high-mileage vehicle running well for many years. Whether you need to schedule service or you’d like to discuss your car’s maintenance schedule, contact Express Auto/RV Care Center!
Accredited by the Better Business Bureau and staffed by ASE-certified technicians and service advisors, we offer same-day maintenance and repair services, as well as washing and detailing. With our 3-year/36,000-mile warranty and satisfaction guarantee, you can have peace of mind that your repairs are completed correctly the first time—and are meant to last. Call us today at (928) 305-0767 or request an appointment online.
