subject: Dealing With Your Car If It Has Registered 100,000 Miles [print this page] When a car hits 100,000 miles it is possible that the car has outrun its threshold and is worn out. But thanks to the technology, car design and maintenance, nowadays the scenario for cars with 100,000 miles is entirely different. Unless considered for a trade-in, these cars can still go twice as many miles without much fuss. But then, it all depends on the preventive measures as small investments that will add years to the life of your car to keep it zooming well past 100,000 miles.
Just like an aged member of your family, your old car also needs extra care and attention. Using the right oils and regular maintenance checkups will add happy miles and years to make it roadworthy. Since your car is your second most expensive investment after your home it also needs constant attention.
If your car has crossed the 100,000 mile mark the following preventative measures that are highly warranted to keep your car running smoothly:
Your owner's manual should become your ready reckoner
The owner's manual has a schedule chalked out in it for the 100,000 miles and it lists all the replaceable parts in case they are worn out. This list varies with different cars. Modern cars have their maintenance schedule built into their internal computers alerting you with a flash of light or a beep will alert you on the need to replace a part or two.
Prevent expensive repairs
A water pump and timing belt would need greater attention even before you notice a problem with them. These are not expensive parts but if the belt breaks, it can cause an internal damage to the engine, or if the water pump fails it can overheat the engine and warp the cylinder head.
The liquids like the fuel, oil, brake fluid and power steering fluid that go into your car are crucial to extend the life of a car. To extend the life of your car beyond 100,000 miles consider frequent oil changes and fluid checks done at a dealership or full-service auto center.
Ask for staff at a quick-change lube shop with extensive training and experience. It is to make sure that they do not top off long-life fluid with non-long-life or put power-steering fluid where the brake fluid ought to be.
While choosing oil, consider buying full synthetic oils. They are designed for longer life, emit less, lube the engine better and offer better performance. These may cost a little extra. If you are consistent over time you can prevent mixing synthetics and blends to avoid problems. Check the manual for the advice on type of gas that benefits your car. Choose between the premium and the regular based on the benefit mentioned in it.
Research thoroughly and choose the best repair shop to extend the life of your car. Ask friends and neighbors, and search on-line for reviews. Once you've chosen one, get to know the staff there and ask questions. Sticking with your car's dealer can be a safe choice, because the staff there is trained to work on your car. At 100,000 miles it is out of warranty and the parts for some vehicles, including exotic cars and some German models, can be hard to get.
Type of driving
Highway driving puts less stress on a car than while driving in the city. Highway driving involves less quick braking and acceleration, and moisture under the hood has a chance to evaporate. Cars that do a lot of short trips will require exhaust work a lot sooner than car that travels on the highway a lot. Local driving in colder climates can also cause buildup of ice and snow under the car, which may contain corrosive chemicals so wax your car regularly.
