According to federal safety regulators, older cars are more likely to harm you and your passengers compared to newer ones. That doesn’t mean you can’t take your old car out for a drive.
However, doing regular auto maintenance on your aging vehicle should help keep it running smoothly and safely.
Here are six essential tips that can help you maintain your old car.
1. Invest in a quality battery
Your battery starts the car and powers essential components such as your windows and wipers. Because of this, a quality battery should be one of your top priorities when it comes to maintaining your old car. You’ll also want to ensure that it’s placed securely so that there’s good contact with the terminals.
2. Check and change the oil regularly
Perhaps the most crucial part of car maintenance is regularly changing the engine oil. It’s also one of the best ways to keep your engine in good condition. You want to ensure that your car oil is fresh, and changes should be made at least once every two months.
Park your car on a flat surface if you’re going to check the oil level yourself. Doing so will ensure that you measure the oil level correctly.
Older car models burn through oil faster, so regularly changing it keeps your car working properly for as long as possible.
3. Inspect the brakes regularly
Your brakes are essential because they can save lives in the right situation. That’s why it’s vital that they should be checked regularly. For older vehicles, it’s wise to always inspect the breaks yourself after a drive.
You can do this by simply feeling the pressure every time you step on the brakes. You should make sure that they’re not getting too hot and don’t require more pressure than necessary. Brake fluid should also be topped off at least every two years.
4. Clean the air filter
Your car’s air filter is meant to keep dirt and debris out of the engine, ensuring that it continues to work correctly for as long as possible. You’ll want to inspect your air filter every 5,000 – 7,500 miles, and you should be replacing it at least once per year. As an essential part of maintenance, this is something that you won’t want to skimp on.
5. Clean the wipers regularly
Your wipers are perhaps the essential but underappreciated part of your car. It’s a vital safety component, especially during bad weather. Be sure to check on them and make sure that they’re in good condition. You should also have them replaced at least once per year. You should also ensure that they’re clean before going out into the rain
6. Avoid heavy use until the engine is properly warmed up
One of the essential points of maintaining an old car is being sure that it’s properly warmed up before going out on a long drive. Many older cars don’t have methods or the technology to warm up the engine efficiently.
If possible, you should avoid heavy use until it’s been adequately warmed up. Not doing so will increase the risk of seizing your engine in the middle of your drive.
Maintenance Is Key
With these six essential tips, keeping your old car running smoothly for years has never been easier. You may even avoid spending lots of extra money on repairs or new parts because you’ve done your due diligence when it comes to maintaining your vehicle.
If you’re still unsure how to properly maintain your old car or want to have it checked, be sure to visit an experienced mechanic to help you. Auto Works of Brandon offers a wide range of car maintenance and repair services. Get in touch with us today to know more about how we can help you maintain your old car.
