Having an old car has it perks with their classy charm, but how do you keep it running and dependable? Maybe you got one of your dad’s old cars passed down to you and want to keep it as long as you can. Or maybe you want to keep your car for a while after just paying it off! Some old cars may even run better than newer models, depending on the vehicle. We wanted to give you some practical ways to keep your old car running like it’s new for the long haul!
1.Change your oil and oil filter!
One of the best ways to preserve the life of your older vehicle is to keep fresh oil running through it. This will help to avoid any engine problems over time. When you go to get your regular oil change, check your oil filter as well. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the best recommended time to do so for your car.
2. Get new coolant!
Your vehicle’s engine coolant is important to your car’s health and needs to be changed frequently, especially for old cars. The coolant in your vehicle can become acidic after a while and can cause corrosion. Go to your local automotive repair shop to replace it at the time your car’s owner’s manual suggests!
3. Maintain your tires!
What is a vehicle without good tires!? No matter how old your vehicle is, it cannot run well without great tires. Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles and also check the tire pressure and tire tread consistently. If you need assistance with this, go to your local tire shop and find a professional to help!
4. Keep up with your car battery!
One of the most common problems with car batteries is a loose battery connection. This can cause issues with starting your car and will need to be fixed right away. Getting your battery connections repaired is an easy fix for the professionals! Go to your local mechanic to get it repaired and back on the road. With an older vehicle, you will need to make sure you replace your battery right on the date that your owner’s manual suggests!
5. Keep it shiny!
Now, the outside matters just as much as the inside! Keep it looking new and shiny by waxing your vehicle at least four times a year. If you live in a cooler climate, make sure to wipe any salt or debris off of your vehicle to keep it from rusting and/or ruining your paint job. One of the best ways to keep old cars looking new is to keep the exterior in mint condition!
6. Don’t overlook the small repairs!
While it may be tempting to do, don’t forget about all the small details like maintenance and cleaning the interior. This makes a huge difference in the way you care for your vehicle. The more time you put into your vehicle and maintaining it well, the longer it will last for you.
We hope this blog gave you practical steps and ideas to keeping up with your older vehicle! If you live in the Central Ohio area and need a car repair, come see us at Harris Automotive today!
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