6 Tips for Maintaining a High-Mileage Used Car

Posted Thursday, Apr 27, 2023

6 Tips for Maintaining a High-Mileage Used Car

Maintaining a high-mileage used car can seem like a daunting task. It can be difficult to know where to start and what to do in order to keep your car running at its best. With the right knowledge and maintenance schedule, however, it's possible to extend the life of your high-mileage used car and keep it on the road for years to come.

In this blog post, we'll provide you with six tips for maintaining a high-mileage used car.

1.      Change Oil Regularly

One of the most crucial maintenance procedures you can perform on a high-mileage used car is oil changes.Oil helps lubricate the engine and can even help prevent costly repairs down the line.

It’s a good idea to change the oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or as specified in your car’s manual. When you change the oil, be sure to use a new oil filter as well.

Oil filters help keep debris from entering your engine and causing damage. You should also use the correct type of oil for your car – usually either synthetic or conventional – as specified by your car’s manufacturer.

Be sure to properly dispose of any old oil after you’re done changing it, as it can be hazardous to the environment if left unchecked.

2.      Keep an Eye on Your Tires

Maintaining proper tire pressure is important for the safety of your high-mileage used car, as well as its longevity. Improperly inflated tires can lead to uneven tire wear, decreased fuel efficiency, and poor handling and control.

It's crucial to often check the tire pressure. The right tire pressure for your vehicle can be found on a sticker on the driver’s side door jamb or in your owner’s manual. In general, most cars have an optimal tire pressure range between 32-35 psi (pounds per square inch).

Here are a few tips to make sure you keep your tires properly inflated;

• Check your tire pressure every month with a gauge.
• Keep a spare tire pump in your car in case of emergency.
• Consider purchasing a tire inflator with a built-in pressure gauge for easy use.
• When inflating your tires, keep an eye on the pressure gauge.

By taking the time to inflate your tires correctly, you will ensure that your car runs at its peak performance. This can help save you money in fuel costs, improve the lifespan of your tires, and ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive.

3.      Use High-Quality Fuel

Using high-quality fuel is important for maintaining a high-mileage used car. The fuel you put into your car will directly affect its performance and reliability, so using the highest-quality fuel available is essential for keeping your car running smoothly.

The high-grade fuel you use can help to improve your vehicle's efficiency, provide better engine performance and reduce wear on your engine components. It also reduces the formation of deposits in the fuel system, which can cause the engine to run less efficiently and shorten its lifespan.

Additionally, the additives found in high-grade fuel can help to keep your car’s emissions at a lower level and reduce the risk of costly repairs down the road.

Taking the time to fill up with premium fuel can help you get the most out of your high-mileage car.

4.      Inspect Your Brakes

It’s important to inspect your brakes on a regular basis, especially if you own a high-mileage used car. Brake pads and rotors can wear down over time, so it’s important to ensure that everything is working properly.

Be sure to check for any irregularities or squealing noises, as these are signs of wear and tear. If you detect any issues, be sure to have your brakes inspected by a professional mechanic.

If your car has been on the road for a while, it may also be necessary to replace the brake fluid. This helps to ensure the safety of the braking system and should be done every two years or so.

Additionally, keep an eye on the brake line hoses. Check for any signs of cracking or deterioration, as this can lead to brake failure and other issues. Following these steps can help you keep your brakes in top condition and keep your car running smoothly.

5.      Check Your Coolant Level

Keeping your car’s coolant level topped up is essential.

It’s important to check your coolant level regularly and make sure it’s between the maximum and minimum marks on the coolant reservoir. If you have an older car, you may need to add some coolant every few months.

Check your owner’s manual or ask your mechanic to show you how to do this. When checking the coolant level, look for any signs of rust, which could indicate a leak in the cooling system. If you detect a problem, take your car to a mechanic for inspection as soon as possible.

Keeping your coolant levels at the proper level will help ensure that your car’s engine runs at its optimum temperature, preventing any potential damage to other parts of the engine.

6.      Clean Your Battery Terminals

Having clean battery terminals is an important part of maintaining a high-mileage used car. Dirty battery terminals can lead to a decrease in power or, even worse, an engine failure. Cleaning your battery terminals will help to keep your car running smoothly and efficiently.

It’s a good idea to get into the habit of cleaning your battery terminals every 6 months or so. Doing this will help to prevent corrosion, improve electrical connections, and help extend the life of your car battery.

If you notice any corrosion or damage to the terminals, take your car to an auto repair shop to have them fixed. Doing so will help ensure that your vehicle starts quickly and reliably.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a used car with high mileage, it’s important to make sure that you maintain it properly. Following these tips will help you get the most out of your vehicle and ensure that it is reliable and runs smoothly for years to come.

If you’re looking for a used car, be sure to check out Diamond Motors for preowned cars. We have a variety of vehicles that have been thoroughly inspected, serviced, and maintained to ensure they are safe and reliable.

With regular maintenance and the right parts, you can ensure that your high-mileage used car runs like new!