Metro Detroiters heavily rely on their modes of transportation, and the Motor City isn’t shy to holding onto cars until they’re completely useless. With a city full of mechanics and automobile experts, you’re more likely to see older cars on the road, even when you would think they’re past their prime. However, if you have a car that is 10 years or older, there are certain maintenance steps that you should consider in order to keep it running for another 10 years! While some of these tips apply to all car maintenance, they especially hold true to older vehicles.
Old Car Tips
- Oil Changes – Regularly changing the oil in your car is the single most important thing you can to keep your vehicle running for many years. When you neglect this area of car maintenance, your car is more likely to deteriorate quickly. When you’re changing the oil, also make sure that your oil filter is checked and changed as needed. Keep track of when you change your oil, and ask your mechanic what mileage you should come back in for a tune up.
- Washing & Waxing – Keeping the exterior of your car clean and maintained is just as important as the inside. Especially when combating the harsh Michigan winters, you’ll want to keep your car washed and waxed as often as possible, in order to minimize rust and corrosion.
- Wheel Bearings – The wheel bearings of your car help you minimize shock when you hit bumps and pot holes. They allow your wheels to spin smoothly, and hold everything connected to your wheels in place. If you notice more friction occurring during your daily commute, you may want to address having the bearings tunedup. When your wheel bearings are in good order, you will eliminate your car from overheating in this area.
- Sun Protection – Along with the harsh and cold winters, the sun will also cause damage to both the interior and exterior of your car. Park your car in the shade as often as possible, in order to keep plastic deteriorating or melting in your car. Additionally, keeping your car out of the sun will protect any leather you have from drying out.
- Other areas to address – While every car has its’ own set of standards and needs, there are a few other areas that you’ll want to periodically check and make sure they are in great shape. Check your owner’s manual for specifics on your car.
- Coolant
- Transmission Fluid
- Differential Oil
- Brake Fluid
While every car has its’ own specific areas of maintenance, by keeping up with a few simple steps on your older vehicle you can keep it running for a lifetime!
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