Tips To Help Your Car Stay On The Road For 200,000 Miles

A blue 2020 Chevy Malibu against a modern brick building in daylight.

It used to be very uncommon to see a car on the road with 100,000 miles or more, but it’s becoming more and more common as we get further into the 21st Century. Why? Cars are simply made better than they were a few decades ago. Now, most cars are made with the intent to last for a quarter of a million miles – that’s a long time! If you’re someone who likes to drive their cars as long as possible, take these maintenance tips for keeping your car in tip-top shape well past the 200,000-mile mark.

Once A Month

Once a month, you’ll want to check that your tires are properly inflated and top them off if they’re a little low. You’ll also want to check and top off the windshield wiper fluid once a month.

Mileage Intervals

Average drivers rack up 7,500 miles in about eight months. After 7,500 miles or eight months:

  • Get an oil change and change the oil filter.
  • Rotate your tires so they wear out evenly.
  • Check the engine coolant level and replace wiper blades if necessary.

After three years or 36,000 miles:

  • Change the compartment air filter, which ensures dust and pollutants don’t get inside the car and irritate passengers.

After 72,000 miles:

  • Change the engine air cleaner filter.
  • Change the compartment air filter again.
  • Check the evaporative control system – this system filters out pollutant emissions.

Use The Correct Fluids

Using the correct fluids specified by your manufacturer helps your car perform better, and may keep your car in warranty. We always recommend visiting a dealership auto shop, like ours at Jay Hodge Chevrolet Cadillac of Muskogee, to be sure that all of the maintenance on your car complies with your vehicle’s warranty.

100,000 Miles+ Maintenance

When your car is close to hitting, or hits the 100,000-mile mark on the odometer, it’s important to have these important maintenance items checked out.

  • Check the belts and hoses – after so much use, the rubber on these parts can deteriorate, but it can be tricky to see. We always recommend having an expertly-trained mechanic check them each time you bring your car in for regular services.
  • Check the timing belt – most manufacturers recommend changing this out anywhere between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. While it can be a little pricey upfront, it saves you from even more expensive engine issues further down the road.
  • Check the alignment – if you haven’t had an alignment recently, it could be time to get one, especially if your car pulls to one side or if the steering wheel is sitting crooked.

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Schedule Service

As you now know, helping your car get to 200,000 miles and beyond takes a dedicated, routine service schedule with a trusted auto shop. Schedule your appointment with us at Jay Hodge Chevrolet Cadillac of Muskogee today for top-notch car care.

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