Paying attention to these 5 auto maintenance tips and a few simple changes to your driving routine can help you squeeze more miles out of your vehicle. No matter what kind of car you drive, these tips can help you keep it running for many years to come.

Plus, if you’d like to avoid having to spend money on buying a new vehicle, keep your car running like new. Many people keep buying new cars because they worry that older models will not be as reliable.  Check out these 5 ways to keep your vehicle running great no matter how old it gets!

  1. Regular Auto Maintenance is the Key

No matter what kind of vehicle you own or when you bought it, the right maintenance can make all the difference. Regular oil changes and fluid checks will extend the life of your engine and prevent future problems. 

Keeping a close eye on the fluid levels allows you to spot leaks before they have a chance to damage your engine, transmission or radiator. Checking the tire pressure each time you get gas helps you spot alignment problems and uneven wear.

  2. Keep Your Eyes and Ears Open When Driving

Your senses can tell you a lot about your vehicle and help you spot problems early. Like a pilot getting ready for flight, do a pre-drive checklist each time you get in your car. Check the lights on the dashboard, make sure the headlights and windshield wipers are in working order and listen for any unusual noises.

Investigate any issues before you pull out of the garage. If anything seems amiss, make an appointment with a trusted mechanic and have it checked out. Spotting a problem early and dealing with it right away can save you a lot of money. 

3. Avoid Short Trips Whenever You Can

Short drives can be hard on your engine, so you should avoid them whenever you can. When you drive only a short distance, the engine never gets a chance to reach its optimal operating temperature. That can lead to premature wear and even damage to your engine.

If your commute to work is only a few miles, try driving a little longer or taking the scenic route to the office. Make the same adjustments when you drive down the street to the grocery store or gas station. Limiting trips of 5 miles or less can extend the life of your engine and make your car last longer.

4. Keep Careful Auto Maintenance and Repair Records

You probably remember the last time you changed your oil, but when did you buy your last battery? Keeping careful records of your car related care will make it easier to avoid problems later on. If your car has a five-year battery that is reaching the end of its lifespan, you can start planning for a replacement now – before you end up stranded with a dead battery and a car that won’t start.

Keeping careful maintenance records will also help if you ever sell your car. The new owner will want to see those records and know that the car has been properly maintained. If you get your car serviced or repaired at Wayne’s Automotive, be sure to ask our Service Manager for a copy of your detailed records. Having the records in hand can make negotiating a good sale price much easier.

  5. Keep Your Car Clean

Road grime, dirt, and other debris can take a toll on even the most well-maintained car. If you live or drive in an area with rough roads or cold winter weather, you need to wash salt and residue off your vehicle as soon as possible. Running your car through the automatic car wash or spraying it down yourself can stop rust and corrosion in its tracks and help you keep your car on the road longer.

It is no longer unusual for a new car to last for well over 100,000 miles or more, but that is just a  start for some owners. Some lucky drivers have managed to rack up 200,000 or even 300,000 or more miles on their cars. With proper maintenance, regular oil changes and diagnostic inspections, there’s no reason you cannot do the same. And no doubt, keeping your car for a decade or more can save you thousands of dollars – money you would otherwise have to spend financing a new vehicle.

Wayne’s Automotive is a family owned independent automotive repair shop with experience with all domestic and import makes and model, including diesel engines and trucks. Since 1980, we’ve been proudly providing truck and auto repair, towing and vehicle maintenance to Aiken SC and surrounding communities. Come visit us at Wayne’s Automotive, where “We Take Pride in Your Ride.”