An old car can run for years with proper maintenance from a qualified auto mechanic. On top of a rewarding long-term car ownership, it saves you from buying a new vehicle sooner than necessary. To keep your old car in top shape and ensure it’s running strong as long as possible, check out the tips below.

How to Maintain an Older Car

1. Change Your Oil

One of the best tasks you can do for your engine is to change the oil regularly. All experienced auto mechanics will replace the oil and filter, but make sure they also take down the date and mileage after each oil change. This way, you know when your vehicle is due for the next one, which will typically be every 3,000 miles for an older car.

2. Make Fewer Short Trips

With trips less than 10 minutes, your engine cannot reach its full operating temperature. Because one of the byproducts of engine combustion is water, it must reach a high enough temperature to vaporize water and expel it from the vehicle. Otherwise, it will remain inside and potentially rust your car's engine and exhaust.

3. Change Out Fluids

Fluids like transmission, differential, brake, power steering, and antifreeze are all essential to your car’s long-term health. You should change transmission and differential fluid every 60,000 miles, while power steering fluid should be every three years or 50,000 miles, whichever is first. Brake fluid and coolant are within clear reservoirs that have markings on the side, indicating whether you need to add any.

4. Start Slowly

When your engine has been sitting for more than five hours, it will have little or no oil left on the moving parts. It only takes a few seconds after startup for the oil pump to lubricate an engine, but you should keep revolutions per minute (RPM) to a minimum during that time. Let the engine run for at least 30 seconds before driving off, and a little more if you haven’t driven it for more than 24 hours.

5. Get Periodic Tuneups

While many modern cars don’t need as many tuneups, an older vehicle benefits from regular inspection and maintenance from an auto mechanic. Seemingly minor issues like a clogged fuel line, worn plugs, or air leaks can cause long term problems for your car. Most importantly, make sure all safety features are in working order at all times.

 

If your aging vehicle is due for maintenance, contact the experienced auto mechanics at A-1 Auto Service. Located in Lorain, OH, these ASE-certified® professionals have served residential clients for more than 40 years. From routine oil changes and engine tuneups to brake repair and transmission service, they offer the latest industry practices in quality diagnostic and auto repair services. Visit their website to learn more about their services, or call (440) 245-0076 to schedule an appointment today.