When was the last time you drove a new car off a dealer’s lot? Can’t remember, huh? With many Americans cutting their budgets and waiting to replace their older cars, the average age of a car on the road is now about 9.4 years.
Since more people are opting to repair their old vehicles, car repair shops around the country are seeing a boost in business. Here are five things you should make sure the mechanic is watching to help prolong the life of your vehicle:
1. Look beyond your oil filter. Most people know it’s typically best to change their oil and oil filter every 3,000 miles or so, but we often overlook other important filters and fluids like antifreeze, brake, transmission and air filters. Your owner’s manual will give you the best schedule for changing your air filter, but depending on the air quality in the area you drive, you could change it more frequently. After a period of time, your air filter may become clogged, causing your engine to work harder and reducing your fuel economy.
2. Inflate those tires. It is not only important to check your tires for the right inflation pressure, but you should also look for signs of excessive wear, which may indicate automobile safety is at risk. You should also consider getting your tires rotated every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, even if your tires don’t show signs of wear.
3. Don’t ignore warning signs. Is your check engine light on again? Pay special attention to one of the most important car safety features you have. An engine light could indicate a serious problem with one of your vehicle’s systems, and should be checked immediately.
4. Get regular checkups. Just like you need an annual physical, a routine check up can catch any minor issues before they escalate into major expensive problems. People who take auto safety seriously are less likely to face high repair bills.
5. Find a trusted mechanic and establish a good relationship. Jumping from mechanic to mechanic is similar to going to a different doctor each time you’re sick. Most auto repair shops will have an electronic record of all past services on your car so you won’t be charged for repeat services. A good mechanic can help you spot potential problems even before they occur, and can help you make an informed decision if you must make a costly repair.
There may come a time where maintenance won’t work any longer. If you are spending more money on car maintenance and check-ups than your car is worth, it may be time to consider getting a new car.
