How to Extend the Life of Your Car

Your car is like a lifeline for every aspect of your life. It gets you to work, to the store, and to see your friends and family! Your vehicle is essential for day to day life and it’s important your investment can last for many years. The initial cost of your car might be a lot, but unwanted repairs can feel even more expensive. Luckily there are several ways you can take care of your vehicle to keep it in great shape!

Yes, Oil Changes Are Important

It can be easy to stretch the 3,000 mile recommendation to 6- or 7,000 miles instead, but there’s a reason they give you a timeline. The oil used in your engine is crucial for your car to function properly. It’s there to lubricate and cool the moving parts within your engine, preventing serious damage. 

If you avoid regular oil changes, it can lead to engine failure, poor fuel economy, and corrosion. Following regular oil changes is one of the easiest ways to extend the lifespan of your car. 

Pay Attention to Your Driving Style

Did you know that your driving style can actually influence the condition of your vehicle? If you tend to brake hard or accelerate too quickly you could be contributing to more frequent wear of important components. For example, if you spin your wheels or brake hard, you are causing your tire tread to wear faster and your brake pads to thin more quickly. 

Driving safely isn’t only important for yourself and others on the road, but it can actually help your car last a lot longer.

Change Your Filters

When you change your oil, you’ll also need to change the oil filter, but there are a few other filters you can periodically change to keep your car in good shape. Most models will have an engine filter and a cabin air filter, both of which can easily be replaced at home. 

Refer to your owner’s manual or do a quick online search to determine your vehicle’s filter sizes and location. You can even invest in reusable filters that can be cleaned and put back in place, saving you money and helping the environment!

Use Quality Fuel

Your car is either powered by gasoline, diesel or electricity. Electric and diesel powered models may not be affected by quality, but there are different levels of gasoline. Some vehicles will require premium fuel, usually indicated by a number greater than 90 at the pump. However, you can also decide between regular and mid-grade fuel. Using the best option for your vehicle will help it run more smoothly, efficiently, and longer. 

There are many ways to care for your car and help it keep running for years to come. Our team at Express Auto is here to be a resource for all of your vehicle needs! You can visit us at one of our five locations throughout Western Michigan, including Kalamazoo and Benton Harbor. We are proud to serve Grand Rapids and the surrounding area.