High Mileage Vehicle Maintenance Checklist
Regardless of your driving habits or even how many years of experience you have behind the wheel, properly maintaining your vehicle is the best way to keep your vehicle on the road for years to come. Due in part to advancements in automotive technology, today’s cars are now more reliable and durable than ever before. Combined with skyrocketing inflation, fuel costs, and new car prices – it’s entirely understandable that drivers are keeping their vehicles for longer than in years past.
However, high-mileage cars do require some special care and attention in order to keep them running at peak performance. Our team at the Germain Motor Company has created this helpful guide that lists our top tips and recommendations for servicing your high mileage vehicle. You’ll be able to save money and enjoy many more years of reliable performance by following these simple methods for maintaining a car with high mileage. Let’s get started!
High Mileage Car Maintenance & Service Tips
Tip #1 – Follow Recommended Maintenance Schedule
Just because your odometer has exceeded 100,000, 150,000, or even 200,000 miles doesn’t mean that it’s time to start doing things differently! Since following the factory-recommended maintenance schedule has gotten you this far, continue to follow these recommendations for routine maintenance intervals. The manufacturer of your vehicle developed these suggestions in an effort to maximize performance and longevity. Proper maintenance has gotten you this far, don’t stop now!
Tip #2 – Pay Special Attention to Rubber Components (Belts, Hoses, & Tires)
There are a number of important components of your vehicle that are made of rubber such as belts, hoses, and your tires. These rubber compounds are especially susceptible to cracking, hardening, and accelerated wear and tear caused by age and high mileage. A snapped serpentine belt, cracked radiator hose, or flat tire can leave you stranded on the side of the road without even a moment’s notice. Have a qualified technician inspect these rubber components at your next service visit and replace them if they show signs of age or excessive wear.
Tip #3 – Used High Mileage Oil
It’s hard to overlook the importance of routine oil changes, especially for a high-mileage vehicle. Engine oil is responsible for protecting internal engine components from harmful friction and heat, both of which can cause significant damage. In addition to following the recommended oil change schedule, it’s a good idea to consider switching to a high-mileage blend of oil. Available in both conventional and synthetic blends, high-mileage oil is formulated specifically to deliver additional protection for vehicles with more than 100,000 miles. Typically priced similarly to other types of oil, high-mileage oil blends can deliver additional peace of mind and protection.
Tip #4 – Maintain Your Fuel System
While you’re probably familiar with changing your oil and keeping your vehicle’s fluids topped off, another component that requires special attention is your fuel system. Responsible for supplying fuel to the engine, your fuel system needs to be clean in order to deliver maximum performance and good fuel economy. Over time, contaminants within your fuel system can clog fuel injectors and your fuel filter and create expensive problems. Using a fuel system cleaner and having a trained technician inspect your fuel system are two great ways to extend the life of your vehicle’s engine.
Tip #5 – Keep the Exterior Clean
Driving a vehicle that’s been freshly washed and waxed is always a satisfying experience. However, keeping the exterior of your high mileage vehicle clean is also a smart strategy to extend its life! The older your vehicle gets, the more susceptible it is to rust and corrosion (especially for vehicles driven on salty roads in the winter). Whether it’s done by a professional or by yourself, making an effort to keep your vehicle clean is a simple and effective way to keep it looking its best for years to come. You can also consider adding a rust-preventative coating to the undercarriage of the vehicle for even greater protection against the elements.
