Maintenance Tips For Used Cars.

Purchasing a car is a huge investment, whether it is a used car or a brand new one. A car is not only a means of transportation, more often than not, it is a measure for your bad times, as you can always fall back on selling the car when you are under duress. It is a source of stability for your family and a means of boosting your social status. Therefore, caring for it is absolutely essential.

How long a car will run ultimately boils down to how well it has been maintained. Of course, cars come with their individual warranties from the manufacturers, and will definitely not run forever; however, if you properly maintain your car, you are likely to be able to take it out for a spin for at least four to five extra years. When it comes to a used car, maintenance becomes even more essential, since the car has already been used for a while before. Here are some useful tips that can help your vehicle last longer, even if it is a used one.

1. Always go for all servicing and maintenance schedules.

When you are buying or selling your used car, of it is still under the warranty period, you are likely to receive the relevant documents from the previous owner. Even if the warranty period is over, you should still try to go for all servicing appointments, preferably at the original manufacturer’s outlet. In case you are going to the local mechanic, please be trusting and use only official spare parts. Skipping your servicing appointments will not let you know about the status of your car and get it fixed.

1. Always take care of your tires.

This issue probably has more to do with safety than maintenance, since tyres can skid and cause accidents if they are not changed or pumped properly. It has been seen that older tyres consume as much as forty percent more fuel as compared to newer, well pumped tyres. Pumping at least one a month will not only reduce wear and tear, it will also reduce chances of accidents and fuel consumption. Tyres should ideally be switched or rated every few months, depending on their condition. For used cars, especially, tyres should be given special attention since they have already borne the weight of the vehicle for a while before.

1. Always read the manual and communicate well with the previous owner.

Before you buy the car, it is important to go through the manufacturer’s manual about the car and its maintenance e. It is also very vital to ask the previous owner about his/her experience with the car. This is because this will give you a fair idea about how to maintain the car so that it runs longer. This way, you will get to know everything to keep in mind about the car, and be at a better position to care for it when it has become your possession.

1. Always make sure you change the oil and other fluids timely.

This is maintenance 101 for any car, since regular oil change ensures engine health, and engine health is the key to a long running vehicle. Changing the oil and other fluids can be expensive, but it will protect your investment and indirectly help you save. Other lubricating fluids also need to be checked regularly, since they are essential to ensure the components outside the engine do not create too much friction and overheat your car.

1. Always clean the air filters properly.

This is one point most people fail to take note of. Clogged and dirty air filters reduce gas mileage, especially if it is a used car. Air filters should be replaced every time you cross 10,000 miles or at least once a year. All these maintenance tips can easily lead even your used car to run for a longer time.