 | Jeff Lovell is the owner of Neptune Radiator and Auto Repair. He started a radiator repair shop in 1996 and has grown over the last 15 years into an automotive repair shop. With 3 ASE Certified technicians including 1 Master ASE Certified technician, they have over 40 years of combined experience. They do everything except glass and body repair. For more information please contact us at 620.231.5890 or visit us at 902 West 4th Street. |
Automotive Service & Repair
2012-08-01 16:25:05
Get 200k (or more) miles out of your car
Q- I know that in many cases, buying used is a good option but the new car bug bit me. Now that I have invested, I have decided to make this car last as long as possible. Can you give me some ways I can make this thing see 200k or more miles?
A- It used to be standard practice with most people selling their car every 2-3 years. There is a new attitude out there now and people are driving their cars much longer. In fact, there is a growing number of people and automotive clubs for people who are trying to make their vehicles see 300,000, 500,000, even a million miles on the odometer.
Just like humans, cars need regular care to keep in good working order and to promote longevity. If you want your new car to last, be sure that you get it into the shop regularly to head off problems.
Next, change the oil at recommended intervals. Your engine performs under extreme conditions and after a while looses the ability to lubricate properly. This is called viscosity breakdown. Regular oil changes cost little and the return on the life of your vehicle more than makes up for the cost.
Keep your car hydrated. Keep engine coolant, transmission fluids, brake and steering fluids at proper levels. It seems simple, but this too promotes vehicle longevity.
Perform regular inspections. Undercarriage will help detect worn or loose parts and inspecting brake and fuel lines can help you prevent problems that could cause engine failure.
Keep good tires on your car, and keep them properly inflated. This will prevent unnecessary wear to the car.
Take care of problems when they arise and never ignore the check engine light. If you ignore small problems, they will eventually become big ones.
Keep it looking great. We tend to take better care of vehicles that look nicer.
All of these things will give your car a good chance of seeing 200k miles. They will also save you a bundle in costly repairs and the headaches that go with them!
Good luck, and remember to report back to us when you reach your goal.
