June 18, 2022
How to Increase Your Auto’s Lifespan
Photo by vadutskevich under Pexels License
Gone are the days when cars would only be good for about 100,000 miles on the road before showing signs of wear and tear. Now, thanks to major advancements in powertrain, lubrication, and rust prevention technologies, automobiles have become more durable and reliable. Almost any modern motor vehicle, as long as it’s regularly maintained and cared for, can hit the 200K mark.
Many drivers now drive cars that have passed the 200,000-mile mark. They prefer to continue using their old cars instead of buying new ones principally to save money, and we mean, a lot of money. Consumer Reports says a car reaching that milestone could lead to savings of up to $30,000 or more for its owner.
So, how can you get your car still running smoothly after 200,000 miles or more? What can you do to increase your vehicle’s lifespan? Veteran Car Donations shares six helpful tips below.
- Tip 1: Drive carefully.
Driving recklessly is never a good idea. It’s one of the causes of vehicular accidents. Not only that, but it can also put a good deal of stress on the car.
If you’re guilty of occasionally slamming the brakes, accelerating and decelerating swiftly, cornering aggressively, or doing any other moves that put undue stress on your car, expect that vehicle to give up on you sooner than later.
Aggressive driving will compromise the engine, transmission, and suspension system. Your brake pads will wear faster, and excess heat in the braking system will cause other components to wear early. If you consistently abuse your car, it’s unlikely to reach the 200,000-mile mark.
Mindful driving is key here. If you’re looking to play the long game, you should stay away from rough use.
- Tip 2: Choose quality parts and materials.
While opting for cheap parts and fluids can save you a few bucks now, it would end up costing you a big chunk of money in the long run. Such replacement parts won’t last as long as quality ones.
For instance, if you bought a certain brand of motor oil because of its super low price, it might do you more harm than good. If it turns out that the oil is not the type suitable for your car, it could damage your engine.
Using the wrong type of fluids can damage your vehicle, which could void any warranty you have on it. That’s why you shouldn’t hesitate to go for tried-and-tested brands that may be pricier than others.
- Tip 3: Follow the maintenance schedule.
Routine preventive maintenance is key to keeping a vehicle in tip-top shape even if it reaches the 200,000-mile mark. Check your car owner’s manual for the maintenance schedule of your car components. It will tell you everything there is to know about when to replace your motor oil and oil filter, what’s the right pressure for your tires, when to have them rotated, and when to replace your timing belt, battery, and other car components.
You have to follow all the guidelines set in the manual. Even something as simple as forgetting to change your engine oil on its due date could lead to premature engine wear, causing damage and shortening your car’s lifespan.
- Tip 4: Pay attention to unusual noises.
The moment you start hearing strange noises coming from your car, have an auto mechanic examine them right away, or do it yourself if you can. Check what’s wrong with your car before the damage gets worse.
Hearing scraping noise when using your brakes could indicate worn brake disc rotors. A groaning noise as you turn the steering wheel might suggest that a component in your power steering system is causing friction. A loud bang from the exhaust pipe is the sound of your car backfiring, which happens when unburned fuel leaks from the engine and ignites in the tailpipe.
All those noises could compromise your safety and cost you a fortune in repairs when not promptly addressed.
- Tip 5: Keep your car clean.
Cleaning your car not only makes it pleasing to the eye but can also make it a more pleasant place to be as the miles go up.
Vacuuming dirt and dust on your carpets and seats can reduce premature wear, which can cause holes and tears. Washing and waxing your car’s exterior can help prevent rust and preserve the paint. While cleaning, you might come across minor problems such as loose or broken parts or scratches, which you wouldn’t have spotted otherwise.
- Tip 6: Look for a mechanic you can trust.
Lastly, to get your car to 200,000 miles or more, you need a trustworthy mechanic. Try to develop a solid relationship with them. The person should be the one you can run to when you need an accurate diagnosis, a couple of fixes, maintenance advice, or anything else related to cars. You can also patronize a certain repair shop that’s known for its quality service.
Put Your Old and Unwanted Car to Good Use This Way
Do you have an old car that you don’t use anymore and is just collecting dust and rust in your garage? You can put that vehicle to good use by handing it over to us at Veteran Car Donations. Doing so will allow you to make a difference in the lives of the struggling underprivileged veterans in your local area.
We’ll sell your donated automobile through an auction and use the proceeds to support the life improvement programs for veterans of our charity partners. These IRS-approved 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations provide services to former U.S. service members who are homeless, unable to find decent jobs, and suffering from disabilities and serious illnesses, including mental health conditions.
Our charity partners provide their beneficiaries with free medical treatments, psychotherapy services, financial aid, family support, housing assistance, educational scholarships, job opportunities, and many other essential services.
Expect to receive valuable rewards for your donation. We’ll send you by mail the 100% tax-deductible sales receipt of your vehicle soon after it gets sold. The receipt will entitle you to claim the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.
We’ll also haul your car away for free at a date, time, and place of your choice. There’s no place in the United States where we can’t reach you since we operate throughout the country.
On top of the material rewards you’ll get, your vehicle donation will give you that exquisite feeling of satisfaction, knowing that you’ll be helping uplift the lives of our nation’s suffering heroes.
We accept nearly all types of vehicles. We even take those that have dents, scratches, or defective parts. If you’re uncertain about your car’s qualification for our program, let us know your concerns here and we’ll tell you what we think.
For inquiries, feel free to give us a call anytime through our toll-free hotline at 877-594-5822. Visit our FAQs page to learn more about our quick and easy donation process and other important details.
Support Our Hurting Heroes Today!
Photo by Craig Dennis under Pexels License
Being able to help the needy veterans in your community is a gratifying act you’ll cherish for a long time. You can do it with a simple car donation. Call Veteran Car Donations at 877-594-5822 or fill out our secure online donation form now!
Last Updated: August 23rd, 2023