How to Get 200,000 Miles Out of Your Small Car

This article is directed to small gas-fueled cars because there may be differences with other vehicles. For example, many trucks use a metal timing chain instead of a rubber timing belt; metal chains last longer than rubber belts. It may be wise to change a rubber timing belt every 60,000 to100,000 miles, but a metal timing chain should not be changed that often. To avoid unnecessary maintenance consult a manual that is specific to your car or see a mechanic. This article does not address electric or hybrid vehicles.

Car maintenance is critical to protecting your investment. Car prices vary from $10,000 to $100,000, so it is sensible to guard your investment by maintaining the vehicle. What follows are a few tips that will stretch a car's life to 200,000 miles and beyond. It is even possible in the unusual case to reach the 300,000-mile marker by following these tips.

All of the guidelines that follow are qualified by the adage, "If isn't broken why fix it?" Unnecessary car maintenance is expensive; indeed, many car mechanics routinely profit from it. Their profit is your loss.

For gas mileage, either a three-cylinder or four-cylinder car is best. An example of the three-cylinder is the old GM Metro. These cars use less gas than the large eight-cylinder cars. Larger motors use more cylinders, and most big cars and trucks have bigger motors.

Oil changes are critical -they help fight engine erosion and increase fuel mileage. The oil and oil filter should be changed every 3,000 miles. After 100,000 miles, an oil additive may be useful for restoring engine compression, as long as the manufacturer does not prohibit it. Loss of compression is noticeable in older cars: the vehicle doesn't accelerate as quickly. The additives usually employ something like Teflon to plug the tiny holes and scratches created by mechanical wear. The downside of oil additives is that they may clog spark plugs or other components. Additives are available at auto parts stores.

Fuel filters should be changed whenever they are dirty or clogged. Many filters are made of transparent plastic so that the mechanic can visually determine whether a change is necessary. A new fuel filter improves fuel flow and prevents carburetor or fuel injector blockage. Better gas mileage is another benefit of a new fuel filter.

There are other tips for improving the life of your car, but oil changes and fuel filter changes are two of them. These tips are two first steps toward extending your vehicle's life.

Source: Chilton's Tune-up Manual.