Vehicles need maintenance at different points throughout their lifetimes. These preventative measures keep systems functioning correctly and often help owners avoid breakdowns. You can consult your owner’s manual to determine the right time for DIY car maintenance projects. However, as a general rule of thumb, it is typically recommended that maintenance services happen at 30,000, 60,000, and 90,000 miles.
As vehicles age, major components are more prone to malfunction and brake. That’s why it is perhaps even more important to stay on top of maintenance once your car’s mileage goes over 100,000 miles. But, what exactly should you do? Below are some things you want to consider when doing proper maintenance for your high-mileage vehicle.
Obtain a Warranty
First, it is in your best interest to obtain a used car warranty. That is because if serious car problems develop, it can cost what feels like an arm and a leg to get them fixed. For example, the Engine Control Module can cost anywhere from $1,230 and $1,280 to replace. This module is responsible for monitoring things like air, spark, and fuel within an engine, so you don’t really want to delay the repair. Unfortunately, not every vehicle owner will have the money on hand when a fix is required.
That’s where a warranty can be of assistance. The amount you’ll spend upfront will be in the thousands, as research shows the average price for one of these plans is around $2,550. Then, when service is needed, it will probably be necessary to cover a deductible. Many car warranty companies have $100 deductible systems. Thus, you’ll pay that amount to the mechanic, and the policy will float the rest of the bill.
Do Monthly Maintenance Tasks
Once your vehicle racks up miles, there are some maintenance tasks you’re going to need to do more often than others. For instance, you should make it a point to check the oil and coolant in your vehicle at least once a month. If the antifreeze level gets too low, that could result in the engine overheating. Not only might that leave you stranded on the side of the road, but it may cause significant damage, like a busted head gasket or cracked block as well.
Meanwhile, if your engine’s oil runs out, internal engine components such as pistons can freeze up. So, check these fluids regularly, top them off as necessary, and hopefully, that will keep massive problems at bay.
It is also a good idea to measure the air pressure in your tires once a month. After all, improperly inflated wheels increase fuel consumption, increase the stopping distances of vehicles, and cause poor steering. Finally, take the time to clean off your backup camera lens monthly because you need to be able to see where you’re going and what’s behind you while in reverse.
Do Maintenance Tasks at 3,000-Mile Intervals
There are also maintenance duties vehicle owners need to complete in 3,000-mile increments. For example, changing a car’s oil every 3,000 miles is sometimes necessary. However, you might be able to get away with replacing the oil and oil filter every 5,000 to 7,000 miles, too. You can find out how often to perform maintenance services in your owner’s manual. At every 3,000 miles, vehicle owners will also want to check the washer fluid level.
But, of course, if you regularly clean bugs, dust, and grime off your windshield, you might have to replenish the liquid way before that. Fuel injector cleaner should be added to your fuel tank once every 3,000 miles rolls around too. Just follow the directions on the label of the product of your choosing. Or, there is also the option of getting a local shop to clean your fuel injection system if you wish.
Perform Maintenance Every Six Months
Various maintenance procedures need to be completed every six months too. For instance, after this period expires, you’ll need to check your car’s power steering fluid. If the reservoir is low, refill it to the appropriate level. However, be careful not to overfill the container, as the liquid could land on the hot exhaust or engine and smoke. In addition, you should also wax your vehicle every six months to protect the paint and keep rust at bay.
Do These Tasks at Least Once per Year
Different maintenance tasks must be completed once per year to ensure your high-mileage vehicle remains in tip-top shape. Some tasks may seem more significant than others, but they are all equally important. If your car is equipped with a cabin air filter, it should be replaced once annually or every 15,000 miles. The battery terminals need to be cleaned once a year, too.
And you’ll also want to check the brake fluid, inspect the brakes, and examine hoses and clamps during these checks. Plus, you need to look at the transmission fluid level once per year. Other things you should do include:
- Flush the radiator with a water hose
- Clean the battery terminals
- Rinse the A/C condenser
- Refinish headlamp lenses
The Last Word
Proper maintenance is essential if you want your high-mileage vehicle to last for as long as possible. It can prevent significant problems from coming to light and costing you a fortune to fix. So, don’t put off servicing your ride. Consult your vehicle owner’s manual today and give your car the tender loving care that it needs to serve you well for years to come.
