Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Tips to maintain cars with high mileage | News from New Jersey State Auto

Tips to maintain cars with high mileage | News from New Jersey State Auto

NJ Auto Auction 201.200.1100

While some might limit their cars to 75,000 miles, it's not surprising to find motorists
who want to push their cars to the limit and reach the 150,000 mile milestone and beyond.

Tips to maintain cars with high mileage

July 29, 2011 12:00 AM

Tips to maintain cars with high mileage Most drivers want to get as many miles out of their car as possible. While some might limit their cars to 75,000 miles, it's not surprising to find motorists who want to push their cars to the limit and reach the 150,000 mile milestone and beyond. However, high-mileage cars certainly present a number of different challenges compared to lesser-used vehicles, but according to AutoMD.com, with some smart upkeep, there's no reason why you can't push your car to the limit.

Perhaps the most important thing to remember if you're behind the wheel of a car with a lot of miles is that you can't ignore regular service. In fact, some experts say that making sure you're keeping up with maintenance is more important than ever. Specifically, you should still change the oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles and also pay special attention to your brakes.

In addition to maintaining your car, you will also want to change up the way your drive it. In its younger days, you almost certainly could have pushed it to the limit, but in its older, and more worn out, condition, you'll have to take it easy. There are a number of obvious things to avoid, including driving too fast and off-roading, but towing a trailer and braking harshly can also take their toll.

Although your car may be over the 100,000 mile mark, it doesn't' mean you should ignore how it looks. In particular, older cars' finish are more susceptible to sustaining damage from the elements, which could lead to troublesome rust. To ensure your aged car doesn't fall victim to such a fate, either park your car in a garage or purchase a cover to protect it.

It almost goes without saying that tires are an especially important component to a car, but this is especially true in one that has been around longer than others. Not only can under-inflated and worn down tires create a less-than-ideal drive, they can also be dangerous. Drivers should always make sure their tires have enough air in them, and experts also suggest rotating and balancing them whenever you get your oil changed. Additionally, regularly checking for uneven wear is a must.