Nowadays drivers are keeping their vehicles longer
and driving further than ever before.
As a vehicle's engine ages, its performance decreases and oil starts
to break down at a faster rate. Over time, seals begin to deteriorate,
gaskets become brittle and oil consumption increases -- all leading to
a reduction in engine performance.
Treating your high-kilometre vehicle with a little TLC and consistently
following the 10 rules for high-kilometre vehicle maintenance will help
ensure it will go the distance.
• Make sure you change your oil every six months or 10,000
kilometres -- whichever comes first. No exceptions. Think of your
engine as the heart of your car and motor oil as the lifeblood of
the engine. One can't function without the other, so stay on top
of your oil-change schedule.
• Find a good mechanic. A good mechanic will listen to your
questions and explain procedures clearly.
• Have your tyre pressure checked at least once a month. It's
the best way to prevent unexpected flats. Also make sure to rotate
your tyres and check their alignment as part of a regular car service
(or with every other oil change).
• Pay attention to warning signs. Of course, not every little
thump or ping you hear spells disaster. Cars, like people, have their
peculiarities, and you are sure to quickly learn what is normal for
yours. With a high-kilometre vehicle, however, it's best to check
out any symptom --- be it a sound, smell or feeling -- that seems
the slightest bit abnormal.
• Pay attention to outward signs. If your car is leaking fluids,
it can mean serious trouble. Keep an eye on the conditions of your
driveway or regular parking space for stains or spots that can warn
you of possible leaks.
• Schedule regular servicing of your vehicle -even if your
high-kilometre car seems fine, there’s no guarantee it is. Service
your car to ensure any major components are running smoothly and that
they stay that way. Your oil should be changed, tyres checked and
rotated if necessary, belts checked and replaced, brake lines inspected,
spark plugs and air filter checked and replaced, and fuel injector
checked. A good way to top off a car service is an overall analysis
of your car's engine, and undercar, safety and computer systems.
• Check your fluids regularly. It's dangerous for your
high-kilometre vehicle to get dehydrated, so be sure to keep an eye
on its vital fluids. Simply lift the hood and perform a quick visual
check. Use the dipstick to check the oil level; a quick glance at
the coolant reservoir will let you know if you need more cooling fluid.
• Store it properly. Storing your vehicle in a dry, temperate
location when it is not in use will prevent disastrous wear and tear
on both its interior and exterior. Garage your car whenever possible
to protect its looks.
• Stay on top of safety features. Nothing is more important
than your car's ability to protect both you and your passengers.
Air bags, antilock brakes and any other additional safety features
that you may have added to your car should be carefully checked on
a regular basis (when your car is serviced) to ensure that in the
event of an accident, they will perform their vital, lifesaving functions.
