Ideally, you want your vehicle to last for a lifetime. Having a car that just keeps going gives you financial freedom and prevents you from having to constantly fork out money for servicing and repairs.
But how do you drive for the long haul? What does it take to make a vehicle last for a quarter of a million miles or more?
Well, you’re about to find out. This post is all about driving for the long haul: showing you what you need to do to keep your vehicle going, no matter what.
Buy Electric
One option is to buy an electric vehicle. EVs have fewer moving parts so many experts predict they will last significantly longer than their gasoline-powered equivalents. Aside from the wheels, most electric vehicles only have a dozen or so things that move (and therefore grind against everything else). That compares to literally hundreds in a traditional gas-powered car.
Check Your Oil Levels
Another thing you need to do is check your oil levels regularly. Make sure your dipstick shows the right amount of oil in your engine. Not having enough can cause it to seize up and overheat, damaging both metal and soft components over time.
Examine Your Gaskets
You should also take some time to examine your gaskets and ensure they are in good condition. This component is essential for any gasoline-powered vehicle, including cars.
There are many gasket material types, but some are more robust than others. You’ll want to choose the right one for your vehicle and the type of driving you do.
Read The Owner’s Manual
You’ll also want to spend some time reading the owner’s manual. It’s a valuable resource that tells you precisely how to take care of your vehicle long-term, based on the manufacturer’s experience, testing, and specifications.
Store Properly
Another way to keep your car running longer is to store it properly. Keeping it in a garage or using a cover can shield it from the elements and help to protect it long-term.
While modern cars are now highly resistant to rust and UV damage, they still aren’t perfect. Eventually, they will degrade, potentially preventing you from reaching the 250,000-mile mark.
Clean Regularly And Use Protective Applications
You’ll also want to clean and protect your vehicle regularly to stop rust and corrosion from getting a foothold. Using car-specific soaps and applying protective waxes can have a profound effect on how long your car lasts.
Remember, if you have an older vehicle or a non-standard paint finish, you’ll need to wash and maintain it more regularly. Matte paint finishes can easily scuff.
Keep Your Brakes Serviced
Another way to make your car last longer is to regularly service the brakes. Replacing brake pads and bleeding the hoses regularly helps to keep the vehicle feeling supple and responsive. It also keeps you safe.
Use The Right Fuel
Lastly, make sure you use the right fuel. Cheap gasoline tends to have particles and detritus in it that can accumulate in your engine and cause damage over time. Opt for premium fuels instead.
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