The average age of vehicles on the road has been climbing over the past two decades. USA Today reported that the age of the average vehicle on the road is nearly 12 years old.
With millions of cars hitting the decade mark, you may be wondering how to make your car last longer.
With an older car comes several benefits. One of those benefits is the peace of mind of knowing that you no longer have a substantial car payment.
Think of that. Not having to shell out a car payment every month is a tantalizing idea that many believe to only be a fantasy.
With the average car payment ringing in at over $500 a month, according to a CNBC report, it’s no wonder consumers are looking for tips to make their car last longer.
Think Ahead Before You Buy
A great way to begin getting the maximum life out of your high-mileage vehicle is to start out by making the right decisions when buying it. Here are a few tips to make your car last longer related to that:
1. Buy What You Actually Need, Not What You Think You Need
When you initially begin the car-buying process, be sure to go into the hunt with the right frame of mind. Don’t let yourself be fooled into buying more car than you need, or shelling out extra cash for bells and whistles that don’t offer the benefits of safety and security.
While being sure to have enough horsepower to get you up to merging speed on the highway is important, being caught up in getting pushed in the back of your seat at every stoplight in your daily commute is hard on the engine and other components of your vehicle. Don’t let the initial test drive and a smooth-talking salesman divert you from the long goal: make your car last longer on the road, ideally for a decade or more.
2. Consider The Associated Vehicle Maintenance Costs
What you need to keep your eye on are things like combined fuel efficiency. Doing so gives you a better idea of how much you’re going to be paying at the pump every week.
Also, keep in mind the needs that you may have now and in a few years. If you want to make a car last longer, it is no good to buy a two-door coupe when you’re planning to have children.
3. Make Sure You Know Where You Will Be Driving
Another one of our tips to make a car last longer is to keep in mind what you need your vehicle to be capable of. If you only commute on the highway, any car will do, but if you need to be able to cross some off-road terrain, be mindful of 4x4 capabilities.
Along the same thought process is the consideration of climate. If you live in a relatively mild climate, and snow is only something you see seldomly, then a simple front-wheel drive will suit your needs fine. If you have to deal with a significant accumulation of snow every winter, then an all-wheel drive car or truck is something you should really consider.
Don’t be dismayed. All-wheel drive capabilities don’t necessarily have to mean a sky-high price tag. However, paying a little bit more to make your car last longer and save yourself a mountain of inconvenience is certainly worth it.
Whichever way you go when you initially purchase the vehicle, remember that the true goal is to love your car for the length of ownership. So, do your research and head into the buying process, knowing what you want and need, and the difference between the two. Somewhere in between lies the happy medium of long-term vehicle ownership.
How To Make Your Car Last Longer (Or Just Long Enough)
Already have a car you love, and wonder how to take it with you into the next decade? Here are a few simple tips to make a car last longer so that your odometer hits six figures and keeps climbing.4. Follow Regular Maintenance Schedule
Chiefly, follow the recommended car maintenance schedule that is included in the owner’s manual. For those of us who aren’t familiar, the owner’s manual is that thick book that sits in the glove box.
It has quite a bit of useful information in it to make your car last longer. Almost all of it is in there to get the most life possible out of your car, truck, or SUV.
5. Check If You Have a Severe Maintenance Schedule
Following the recommended maintenance schedule is good, but sometimes you should be aware of what is known as the Severe Maintenance Schedule. This is a schedule that includes more frequent maintenance and is usually needed for people who drive in extreme temperatures, tow or haul heavy loads, consistently drive in stop-and-go traffic, or only make short, frequent trips.
These conditions can wreak havoc on a vehicle's drivetrain, transmission, and braking systems. Servicing these areas often and performing the recommended preventative maintenance will make the car last r considerably longer, while also steering you clear of major repairs down the road.
6. Drive Safely - It Saves Lives and Money
Another simple, and sometimes overlooked, aspect of protecting your car on the road is to drive safely. Though it should almost go without saying, being present while driving and staying alert at all times is becoming harder and harder to maintain.
It’s a bit of a challenge to pull up to an intersection or stoplight and not see somebody looking at their phone. But utilizing new phone features that lock your phone until you’re out of the car is helping to put the emphasis back on driving and contributing to safer driving conditions.
7. Consider a Vehicle Service Contract for Peace of Mind
One of the smartest tips to make a car last longer is protecting yourself from unexpected repair costs with a vehicle service contract. While many people refer to these as extended warranties, a vehicle service contract is actually more flexible.
It's available even after your manufacturer's warranty expires. A VSC also lets you choose from most ASE-certified repair shops.
Understanding the different warranty types available helps you select the right coverage level. For example, an extended warranty or service contract can cover major components like your engine, transmission, and electrical systems.
With coverage in place, you're more likely to address problems promptly rather than postponing repairs that could lead to bigger issues down the road. You’ll be able to afford necessary repairs that keep your vehicle running smoothly for years.
