How to keep an old car running for a long time: tips for motorists

Some car models will be a profitable investment and will last for many years. According to research by S&P Global Mobility, the average age of passenger vehicles in the United States has risen to a record 12.6 years. Not everyone can afford to change cars regularly: prices and interest rates on car loans are rising, and the motivation to keep vehicles in good condition for as long as possible is growing accordingly.

There are many ways to keep an old car running for decades, experts say. Preventive maintenance can prevent potential problems from becoming more serious and costly. Auto experts have shared five ways to keep your used car running for years.

Tip 1

Follow the car's maintenance schedule. It may seem overly obvious, but many drivers ignore or pay little attention to the recommended maintenance schedule. With newer cars now equipped with oil life monitoring devices, experts say there's simply no excuse for drivers who neglect their scheduled maintenance.

Tip 2

It can be assumed that most drivers periodically check at least the oil and windshield washer levels. You should also check the levels of engine coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and radiator water. By keeping all of these fluids at the proper level, you ensure that your vehicle will run well and safely for a long time. Make sure the fluid level does not drop to a dangerously low level.

Tip 3

Don't skimp on the wheels and brakes, as they are the only part of the car that is in direct contact with the road. Tires must ensure safety. Cheap tires can wear faster or more unevenly, which can cause problems with suspension alignment, wear and tear, and excessive stress on important parts of the car. Check the tire pressure at least once a week. The same goes for interchangeable parts such as brakes and wheels.

Tip 4

Changing the air filter is easy and cheap. It should be done once a year or every 20 thousand kilometers. Keeping the air filter clean is crucial to ensuring that the engine runs properly. Reduced gasoline consumption, engine backfiring, and even engine stalling are often caused by dirty and clogged air filters.

Tip 5

The oil pump can lubricate the engine sufficiently within seconds of starting. If your car has been idle for a long time, give it a little rest after starting the engine, but you should really minimize engine speed boosting during startup.

Aggressive driving and shifting will also damage the car. Occasional sharp acceleration and braking is unavoidable, but careless, harsh driving puts a strain on the entire car.

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