Want your car to last well beyond 100,000 miles? These maintenance tips may help extend its lifespan.
You invest a lot of money in your car, so it makes sense to want it to last as long as possible. Regular care and maintenance can help reduce unexpected repairs and may lower long-term ownership costs.
Today, it’s fairly common to see cars with more than 100,000 miles still running reliably. While results vary by vehicle and driving habits, the tips below can help support your car’s longevity.
Get Regular Service
Just like routine health checkups, cars benefit from regular maintenance. Staying on top of scheduled service can help keep your car running smoothly and may catch potential issues early.
Addressing smaller problems sooner—such as worn brake pads—may help prevent more costly repairs later. If a mechanic identifies an issue, taking care of it promptly can reduce the chance of further damage.
Build a Repair Fund
All vehicles require maintenance and repairs over time. Unexpected repair bills can be frustrating, but planning ahead may make them easier to manage.
Setting aside a regular amount—such as $100 or $200 per month—into a dedicated repair fund can help cover maintenance costs as they arise and spread expenses out over time.
Pay Attention to Your Sensors
Dashboard warning lights, such as the check engine light, are designed to alert you when something may need attention. While the issue could be minor, having it checked sooner rather than later may help avoid more serious problems.
Ignoring warning signs can sometimes lead to additional wear or more expensive repairs down the line.
Change the Oil Filter as Recommended
Your car’s oil filter helps keep contaminants out of the engine oil. Over time, a clogged filter may reduce oil flow and affect engine performance.
Following the manufacturer’s recommended oil and filter change schedule can help protect engine components and support fuel efficiency.
Change the Spark Plugs
Spark plugs play a key role in starting your car and maintaining efficient engine operation. Worn spark plugs may contribute to issues like rough idling, reduced fuel efficiency, or difficulty accelerating.
Replacing spark plugs according to the recommended schedule can help keep your engine running smoothly.
Wash Your Car
Regularly washing your car removes dirt, road salt, and debris that can contribute to corrosion over time. This is especially important in areas where salt is used on roads.
Keeping your car clean may help protect the exterior and underbody from rust and long-term damage.
Use the Recommended Oil
Using the type of oil recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer can help ensure proper engine lubrication. Skipping oil changes or using the wrong oil may increase engine wear over time.
Routine oil changes are a relatively simple way to support engine health.
Keep It Light
Carrying unnecessary weight can place extra stress on your vehicle’s suspension and engine. Removing heavy items you don’t need on a regular basis may help reduce wear and improve efficiency.
Every little bit can help when it comes to maintaining your car over the long term.
