5 Top Ways to Make Your Car Last Longer

March 8, 2023

A car is one of the biggest investments most people ever make in their lives. Properly maintaining your car can save you a lot of money in the long run, and it will also ensure that you stay safe while driving. At Pit Shop Auto Repair, we’ve been maintaining vehicles around Lombard, IL, for years, and we wanted to share a few things you can do to help make your car last longer.

A person is holding a checklist | Pit Shop Auto Repair - Lombard

1. Change the Oil and Oil Filter Regularly 

The oil in your car’s engine lubricates the moving parts and helps keep them cool. Unfortunately, over time, the oil can break down, become dirty, and lose its effectiveness. If you don’t change the oil and oil filter regularly, it can cause significant engine damage, which can be costly to repair. To help make your car last longer, you should change the oil and oil filter every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, depending on the make and model of your car.

2. Keep the Tires Inflated to the Recommended Pressure

Tire pressure is crucial for your car’s overall performance and longevity. Tires that are underinflated can wear down more quickly and can also cause your car to handle poorly, affecting your safety on the road. On the other hand, tires that are overinflated can be more prone to blowouts, which can be dangerous. To help make your car last longer, check your tire pressure regularly and keep them inflated to the recommended level. Your car’s owner’s manual or the label on the driver’s side doorjamb will give you the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle.

3. Change the Air Filter Regularly

The air filter in your car’s engine helps to prevent dirt and debris from getting into the engine and causing damage. Over time, the air filter can become clogged with dirt, reducing its effectiveness. This can cause your car’s engine to work harder, which can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and increased wear and tear on the engine. To help make your car last longer, you should change the air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, or as recommended in your car’s owner’s manual.

4. Follow the Maintenance Schedule in Your Owner’s Manual

Your car’s owner’s manual contains a recommended maintenance schedule, which outlines the services your car needs and when they should be performed. Following this schedule can help you stay on top of your car’s maintenance needs and can help prevent problems before they occur. Regular maintenance can also help you identify potential problems early, allowing you to address them before they become more serious and costly to repair.

5. Keep Your Car Clean and Protected from the Elements

Keeping your car clean and protected from the elements can help to prevent rust and other types of damage that can shorten your car’s lifespan. Regular washing and waxing can help protect your car’s paint and finish while keeping your car parked in a garage or covered area can help protect it from the sun’s damaging rays and other environmental factors.

Have Your Vehicle Maintained By A Trusted Mechanic in Lombard, IL

It’s simple, taking care of your car is essential if you want it to last longer. Properly maintaining your vehicle will have it running efficiently for a long time. Taking care of your vehicle can be made a whole lot easier when you work with an experienced automotive technician in Lombard, IL. Our team of mechanics at Pit Shop Auto Repair has been providing the good people of Lombard with auto-maintenance services for years. You can call us at (630) 812-0790; we look forward to working with you!

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