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.

Are you looking to buy a used--or "new-to-you"--car? If so, you probably already know that there are quite a few things you'll need to think about, including potential auto repair. Here's what to know!

Dealership or Private Party?

One of the first questions you'll run into when buying a used car is whether to work with a dealership or purchase through a private party. Although a little auto repair can help bring a tired vehicle back to life, you probably don't want to spend thousands just to get your new-to-you car on the road--so how do you make the right choice?

Here's what to think about when deciding where to buy your used car:

Dealerships

There are all kinds of different used car dealerships to choose from. Some exclusively sell used cars; others sell new cars and "certified used vehicles," usually a franchise dealership.

If you've never been to an auto repair shop or are trying to choose a new one, you might not be sure what to expect. Here are a few things that are likely to be part of your experience--and a few things that shouldn't be.

Your Auto Repair Shop Visit

Understanding Certifications

There are different kinds of certification for auto repair shops--and this information is usually displayed proudly on the wall or door. This helps you understand the level of expertise every employee brings to the table--and also whether the auto shop is qualified to work on your specific vehicle.

For example, while Naylor's Auto Repair can work on a huge variety of makes and models, we're Toyota Prius repair specialists. Owner Steve Bowshier has been working on these vehicles since they first rolled off the production line in 2000, which means your Prius will be in excellent hands with us.

With autumn and winter right around the corner, it's time to start thinking about all your cold-weather responsibilities--like pulling those coats from the back of your closet and stocking up on snow shovels. However, as you're enjoying the cooler weather, don't forget about your vehicle. Temperature changes can have a big impact on things like tire pressure--which is what we're covering in today's tire service FAQs.

The Importance of Tire Pressure

Although it might seem like your tires themselves are supporting the weight of your vehicle and everything it carries, it's actually the air inside those tires that does all the work. That's why proactive maintenance is so important--and also why a change in tire pressure can influence many of the things you take for granted on the road: