Buying a car is a significant investment, and most owners hope to get as many years and miles out of it as possible. According to GOBankingRates.com, reaching 300,000 miles without major mechanical failures is entirely achievable. The media outlet shared several tips on how to extend a vehicle’s lifespan, citing Alain Zori, a mechanic with 35 years of experience and the owner of M&M Auto Repairs.
Keep the engine clean
Regular oil changes are the foundation of a long-lasting engine. Zori recommends using only high-quality full synthetic oil and, just as importantly, changing both the oil and the filter no later than every 5,000 miles.
This routine helps keep internal engine components clean and minimizes wear. Cutting corners on fuel or lubricants — or delaying oil changes — invites sludge buildup, which slowly but surely damages the engine.
Follow the maintenance schedule
Sticking to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule is just as important. Ignoring scheduled service reduces the reliability of both hydraulic and mechanical components and can directly affect safety.
Timely maintenance slows overall wear and helps prevent a chain reaction where one failure leads to another, often resulting in costly repairs.
«Feed» your car quality fuel
Low-quality fuel accelerates carbon buildup inside the engine. To reduce this risk, Zori advises buying gas only from reputable, well-known fuel stations.
He also suggests taking your car on the highway occasionally. Higher, sustained speeds help burn off carbon deposits and allow the engine to «clean itself» naturally.
Inspect the car regularly
Routine tire inspections and wheel alignments every six months help reduce stress on the suspension and transmission. Even if the car feels fine and shows no warning lights, Zori recommends a comprehensive inspection at least once a year.
Catching minor issues early is almost always easier — and far less expensive — than dealing with major failures later.
Exterior care and driving habits matter
A vehicle’s longevity depends not only on engineering but also on how it’s treated. Road salt, chemicals and dirt speed up corrosion, so regular washing is essential. Zori also notes that calm, responsible driving is especially important as a car ages. So, smooth acceleration, gentle braking and cautious driving over potholes and bumps can dramatically extend a car’s life.
