Does your vehicle have high mileage? No need to panic--that hard-working machine could potentially stay on the road for many years to come. However, it all depends on your car maintenance habits and your dedication to vehicle care. Here's what you need to know!
Why Mileage Matters
No matter what make or model you own, proactive car maintenance. It's part of what keeps modern vehicles on the road for hundreds of thousands of miles.
Here's what to know about why those miles matter:
- Mileage Indicates Use
One thing to remember about mileage is that it's essentially the story of your vehicle's life. The average mileage per year is around 14,000--so you can use this number to tell how much a car has been used and how this may impact maintenance needs.
Say you're buying a used vehicle that's ten years old, but it only has 50,000 miles. That means it's been driven less than the average amount. If the same vehicle has 200,000 miles, though, you'll know it has been driven way more than the average.
- Mileage Suggests Normal Wear
Although modern vehicles are designed to stay on the road for plenty of miles (and years), it's also important to remember how many elements of car maintenance are based on mileage. For example, you've probably heard that you should have an oil change every 3,000 to 7,500 miles.
This matters because more mileage means more normal wear and tear on your vehicle and its various parts. If you or the previous owner kept up with car care, this shouldn't be an issue--but in some cases, a high-mileage vehicle that has been neglected might show signs of age.
- Mileage Helps Determine Lifespan
Most people use the term "high mileage" when a vehicle is between 75,000 and 100,000 miles. This determines lifespan in a few ways:
- People expect that higher-mileage vehicles have more problems.
- People may start looking for a new vehicle around 100,000 miles.
- Some cars stop working effectively at a certain mileage.
Car Maintenance for Your High-Mileage Vehicle
Now that you know the basics about mileage, it's time to find out what this means for your car maintenance routine. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Ask About High-Mileage Oil
You know it's important to change your car's oil on a regular basis--but did you know there's another option for higher-mileage vehicles? This oil has a combination of additives and supplements specifically designed for older engines, which may help protect your car and keep it on the road longer.
Think About Your Battery
Unlike other parts of your vehicle, your battery can be replaced relatively quickly and easily--but you shouldn't need to do that frequently. Of course, you'll need to give the battery a little TLC--for example, starting and running your car regularly or double-checking for damage and wear.
Rotate Your Tires
Tire services are an essential part of car maintenance, especially when you have high mileage. You should rotate your tires every 3,000 to 6,000 miles (or whatever the tire manufacturer recommends), get them rebalanced every time you have an oil change, and replace them when the tread is too worn to be used safely.
Check Your Fluids
Your vehicle has all kinds of vital fluids that keep the transmission, brakes, and steering working properly. You need to check these fluids regularly and top them off when necessary or recommended. Also keep in mind that, especially when it comes to older or higher-mileage vehicles, consistently low fluid levels may indicate a leak or other issue.
Inspect Your Vehicle Regularly
In many ways, you're the first line of defense for your high-mileage vehicle. That's why you should make a habit of inspecting your car for wear and tear, noticeable issues, or even changes in performance. A small problem could become bigger (and more expensive) the more you use your vehicle, so don't put off maintenance or repairs. After all, higher-mileage cars have been through a lot--they deserve the best of care!
Conclusion
You don't have to shy away from high-mileage vehicles. Today's cars are designed to work hard and stay on the road--but they need a little help from you. That means staying on top of routine car maintenance and finding an auto repair shop you trust.
Ready to show your high-mileage vehicle a little TLC? Contact us today to schedule car maintenance!