If you are the owner of a high-mileage car or truck, you understand that taking proper care of it is pivotal in keeping it running smoothly. As you put more miles on your vehicle, it becomes even more essential to invest in regular, preventative maintenance. This will not only extend the life of your vehicle, but it will save you thousands of dollars in expensive repairs that could have been avoided!
Although high-mileage cars and trucks are more prone to developing issues in critical areas like the engine, transmission, brakes, and fuel system, your routine tire rotations and oil changes are equally as important. In this article, you will learn three tips on how to appropriately service your vehicle, ensuring that your cherished vehicle stays reliable!
Special Oil for Older Vehicles
Once your vehicle has surpassed the 100,000-mile mark (wow, that’s almost halfway to the Moon), regular oil changes become even more critical. Engine oil is the conduit of your car, and neglecting regular oil changes can lead to an unhappy engine. While the typical vehicle owner changes their oil every 5,000 miles, high-mileage vehicles require more frequent oil changes, around every 3,000 miles.
What is high-mileage oil?
High mileage oil comes with extra enhancements such as seal conditioners to prevent gasket drying and elements that cleanse and lubricate the engine’s internal components. While high-mileage oil can be more expensive, it is an investment worth making!
Regularly Check Transmission Fluid
Your vehicle’s transmission can be one of the most costly components to repair. A quick tip: Regularly monitoring your transmission fluid using the dipstick located at the back of the engine is the easiest and quickest way to make sure it is at a healthy level! Ensuring that the fluid level is between the ‘low’ and ‘full’ markings on the dipstick is how you can check your transmission fluid level.
What color should my transmission fluid be?
The transmission fluid should be a pinkish-red color; any darkening can be an indication that it is time for a change. Remember, consistent checks and maintenance of transmission fluid ensure a smooth and great performing transmission.
Stick to A Consistent Service Schedule
Simply put, the best way to maintain the health of your high-mileage vehicle is to stick to a consistent service schedule. While this may sound costly, preventative maintenance is crucial in avoiding those costly ‘bigger ticket’ repair orders.
Let’s use a transmission service, for example. Getting your transmission fluid changed can cost you, on average, $80 - $250. Meanwhile, ignoring this and having to change your transmission can cost upwards of $3,500; now that is a bill no one wants to see.
Luckily, with Loop, we help you through your entire vehicle service process, from providing you with the highest quality and most reputable service shops to convenient pickup and delivery.
