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Make Your Used Car Last Longer – Part 1

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There are many reasons to go with a used vehicle rather than a new one, from the lower price tag to the slower depreciation rate. Here are some tips for prolonging the life of your used ride, so you can continue to the benefits of owning your car and avoid the pesky monthly payment involved with purchasing a new car.

Choose a reliable model

Check out Consumer Reports and other online reviews to see which brands are known for producing vehicles that are durable. It’s easier to get more than 200,000 miles out of your used car if the model was designed for longevity in the first place.

Replenish fluids

Regularly monitoring your vehicle’s fluid levels is essential to keeping it in peak condition. Check the engine oil, coolant and transmission fluids, and the brake and power steering fluids. A good rule of thumb is to do this every two weeks, since older vehicles are prone to needing more frequent repairs as the engine parts and other components experience the wear and tear associated with old age.

Do-It-Yourself Car Maintenance

 


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Regular maintenance

When it comes to maintaining your used vehicle, the owner’s manual that it came with should be your best friend. Follow the guidelines it lists for maintenance items such as oil changes and replacing brake pads. For general vehicle checkups, it’s wise to schedule a checkup with each new season, to ensure that you and your vehicle are ready to face the unique road conditions associated with that season’s weather.

Check the battery

The battery of your car is another crucial part to monitor. Check the battery for signs of bad wear. This could be in the form of calcified acid around the edge of the battery or acid deposits on the positive and negative terminals (both conditions that could reduce the battery’s power). Consult your owner’s manual on when your vehicle’s battery should be replaced.


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News Sources: Lifehack, Consumer Reports, Autofocus