Ways to make your car last longer

Oil changes and filter change should be done every 3 to 6 months or 3,000 miles. While this is being done you should also lubricate the chassis and replace any worn hoses or belts.

Inpsect the suspension and rotate and check tires for wear every 6,000 miles or 6 months.

Every 12 months or 12,000 miles flush radiator, replace anti-freeze, check air conditioning system. Replace air filters and lubricate chassis.

Every 24 months or 24,000 (which ever comes first) you should have all the spark plugs replaced. For car that run on unleaded this can be at 30,000 mile intervals. Automatic transmission oil must also be changed at this time. Check all brake lines too.

Every 3 years or 30,000 miles check and test ignition wires, test cooling system, heating hoses and drive belts, check brake shoes. (replace if needed)

At 50,000 mile intervals your should change the diffenetial fluid and the manual transmission fluid.

If there is a need for major reapir work to your vehicle, it is recommended that you get a minimum of 3 estimate to avoid being over charged by an auto shop. Ensure all estimates are written down and include the cost and description.

Your car ownes manual is a very important document. I recommend that you read it, as it contains everything your need to know to make your vehicle last longer.

Regardless of you you are, it is important that you at least learn the basics of car maintenance, like how to check oil and water levels. There are many books available, or you can enrol in a class.

A really good mechanic can be difficult to find, so if you do find one, keep using them. Don't automatically go for the cheapest as this may cost you more in th long run if they do a poor job. Reputable technicians with the correct tools or the job usually cost a little more, but you really do get what you pay for.

Avoid car dealers except to have highly specialized repairs done that can't be done properly anywhere else.

Get someone your know and trust to recommend a good repair shop. Referral is an easy way to find a good mechanic.

To have work done on late model computer-controlled engines, make sure the shop you choose has the equipment to handle computer-electric service/repair. Sophisticated diagnostic equipment is a must.

When you start your engine, avoid pumping the gas or over reving. This can damage a cold engine.

Avoid harsh braking and hard acceleration. Try to drive as smoothly as you can. Wheel spinning doesn't just damage the tires but also the transmission and axels.

An international tire company estimated that 33% of all tires on the road are under-inflated (low air). Under-inflated tires wear out quicker and have a tendency to blow out easier. Keep front-end aligned, for longer tire life and better gas mileage. Tires driven at 70 mph. wear out almost twice as fast as those driven 50 mph.

While driving, try not to fly over speed humps or pot holes. It is not a good idea to screech around corners either.

If your vehicle is fitted with cruise control the use it as often as you can as this can considerably increase your gas mileage.

Avoid constantly pressing and releasing the accelerator when driving. This practice not only wastes fuel, but it puts excessive wear on the drive train of your car.

Try to avoid riding the brake pedal as this can increase fuel consumption also, as well as wearing out the brake lines.

Driving with your windows all the way down at higher speeds, will waste 10% more gallons of gasoline than driving with them closed. Research by a major car manufacturer has revealed that neglect of proper routine maintenance is the number one reason for the enormous increase in car repairs being required.

Avoid cleaning your windshield with a dry rag or towel. Always dampen with water or some other cleaning liquid. Dry towels grind and scratch your windshield hindering your visibility.

Try to avoid running your car with the tank low on gas. Keeping a low tank of gas increases the chance of dirt, water/moisture and rust forming in your fuel system. Keeping a full tank decreases the chance of dirt and other foreign matter forming in your fuel system.

If you have a manual transmission it is better to down shift to slow your car down instead of using your brakes. This will save wear and tear on your braking system.

If possible keep your car covered when you are not using it. Either in a garage or car port if you have one or using a tarpaulin. Keeping your car away from the elements, like sun or rain, will maintain the finish longer.

NOTE: According to current auto insurance statistics, the average U.S. car's useful life is 10 years or 100,000 miles. By following proper preventative maintenance you can often double your car's useful life, and spend less