Make Your Used Car Feel And Look Like New

You have seen the price of new cars, so you have come to the conclusion that it only makes sense to keep your used car and not trade it in. I have some suggestions to keep your used car running great for years to come. With today's technology vehicles are built better today than ever in the past, and last longer. Vehicles with over 100,000 miles (which is common these days) still have the original motors, and are performing awesome.

I've listed several tips for keeping your "Old" car feeling and looking like "New".

Tip #1. Change your oil every 3,000 - 5,000 miles. Depending how you drive (how far and how often) you will want to check your owner's manual for the manufactures recommendation. Always check your oil every 2-3 weeks, you can do this when you go to fuel up. If you see that it is low, top it off, up to the mark where it says full.

Tip #2. When you have your oil changed make sure you ask them to lubricate the front-end suspension. (They usually do this, but its always good to ask them). Have them check the other fluids as well. Automatic transmission fluid should be checked, this fluid should be a bright red and is changed between 30,000-50,000 miles. Your car should be running and in park while checking this particular fluid.

Tip #3. While the car is off, check your power steering fluid. You will find a dipstick when you take the cap off. Ensure that it is at the "full" mark, if it is low you will need to fill it.

Tip #4. Radiator fluid is a "must check", running low on this fluid could cause permanent damage to your vehicle. Your overflow tank level should read at the MAX mark if your vehicle has not had time to cool off. Add a water and coolant mixture to the overflow tank if it does not read to the MAX level. If your motor has already cooled off ONLY add coolant to the overflow tank.

Tip #5. Also check your brake fluid, most of the newer cars have a plastic tank that you can fill without removing the filler cap. If it's low, just top off the reservoir tank with brake fluid. Check your owner's manual for the proper fluid to use.

Tip #6. Inspect your fan belt for any cracks. Change your fuel filter if necessary. If there is build up you will need a new one.

Tip #7. Keep your battery terminals clean. Do this by using a wire brush to remove any material build up you may see.

Tip #8. Every other oil change you should rotate your tires. Check your tire pressure using a tire gauge. And do this step often as it will help your gas mileage while the climate temperature varies.

Tip #9. Have your front end inspected to make sure that it is in alignment. Also, have the mechanic look for any worn or broken parts or bushings.

Tip #10. Every twelve months have the exhaust checked for any leaks or unusual noises.

Tip #11. Should your windshield be cracked or damaged have it replaced or fixed. Your wiper blades should be replaced 4-6 months to ensure good visibility.

Tip #12. Washing the outside of your car will keep it looking like new. When waxing your car yourself it is reccommended that you wax once a month. Having a professional wax and buff your car can last up to 4-6 months.

Tip #13. To prevent rust have someone touch up any/all of the chips that may be on your vehicle.

Tip #14. Keep the inside of your car clean, vacuum it often. Using a protective sealant for vinyl or leather seats is highly recommended.