Maintenance for a Used Car

An auto mechanic works on a rally car at the 2...

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Your used car can last you for several years past the loan payoff date, if you are diligent about maintenance. Regular maintenance on your car is one of the best ways to ensure that your investment pays off. There are standard maintenance procedures that need to be performed at certain milestones, and your auto repair professional can help you decide when you need to complete those repairs and upkeep.

Regular oil changes are necessary to keep your car running performing smoothly. This will also help prevent the oil from becoming thick and dirty, which can damage the moving parts of your car’s engine. You’ll also want to make sure you replace the PCV valve every year.

Along with these internal procedures, you’ll also want to check the tires and brakes on your car. The tread on your tires will wear down as time goes by, and watching the wear pattern can help you determine when your car needs an alignment. The brakes may also develop a squeaking noise as an early warning that your brake pads should be replaced.

The exhaust system on your car is an especially important part for regular maintenance. A leaky exhaust system can lead to carbon monoxide being pumped into your vehicle, causing a number of health problems for you and your passengers.

Check your windshield wipers and replace these as often as necessary to make sure you have a clear view in all directions. You don’t want to find out that your wipers are ineffective when you’re caught out in a rainstorm, so be sure to check these at every oil change or maintenance.

Buying a Used Car

Car dealership in Rockville, Maryland (Courtes...

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If the maintenance expense on your old car is getting too high and you’re ready to start shopping for a new ride, consider buying a used car instead of a brand new one. Brand new cars are rarely worth the higher prices they command, simply for the benefit of a new car smell. Buying a used car can save you money in several ways.

A new car depreciates by a significant amount the moment you drive your freshly purchased vehicle off the dealership parking lot. That’s the main reason why buying a used car is so much more cost-effective. Let some other car buyer take the hit on depreciation and look for a used car no more than two or three years old. The average annual mileage for most drivers is about 12,000 miles. Multiply that by the car’s age and compare to your potential used car. If the car has significantly higher mileage than that, it’s probably not the best deal for you.

Be sure to ask for a history on your used car. A vehicle that has suffered through a flood or other natural disaster may have hidden damage you can’t easily locate. Also, a vehicle that has been in a collision may have structural damage that negates its safety features.

Check with your automobile insurance agent and get a quote for the used car you’re looking at before you make the deal. You can probably save money on your car insurance by not buying a brand new vehicle, but you’ll want to make sure that the insurance is affordable before you buy.