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Giving your car the proper care and maintaining an upkeep regimen is important, but it’s even more pivotal if you have an older car. Follow these tips to make sure you get as much life out of your car as possible.
- Change your oil and filter
This task may seem like a standard practice for any car but it is often overlooked by many vehicle owners. Make sure that you change your car’s oil at least every 5,000 miles to keep your car running smoothly. Checking your car’s oil regularly (at least once a month) will help you make sure that you don’t keep your car running on the same oil for too long. Changing your oil filter is just as important and it’s recommended that you do so at least every 6 months. - Protect your car from the sun
Strong sun and heat can damage both your car’s exterior and interior. Try to park in the shade and leave your window cracked to eliminate uneven air pressure. A sunshade will protect your car’s dashboard from harmful UV rays and treating your car’s leather seats regularly with a conditioner will keep your seats lasting long and looking great! - Change your timing belt
A timing belt synchronizes the rotation of both the crankshaft and the camshaft. This piece of equipment ensures that all valves open and close at the same time. In newer cars this typically isn’t a huge concern for most vehicle owners, but this belt should be replaced every 100,000 miles to keep your engine functioning properly. - Wash your car regularly
It’s recommended that you take your car in for a good wash 4 times per year. This is not just to keep your car looking its best, it also helps you avoid damage to your vehicle. Dirt, rain, mud, and salt can corrode your car’s paint job which leaves your car’s exterior vulnerable to rusting. A rusty frame compromises the strength of the metal and can make for a dangerous situation. - Change your brake fluid
The properties in brake fluid make it actively attract water from the air. This can cause your brakes to corrode and rust, thus compromising the safety of your car. It’s recommended to get you brake fluid changed ever 2 years to makes sure your car is in tip top shape. - Make sure you have the proper auto insurance
Ensuring that you’re covered properly and that your auto insurance covers what’s important to you is as important as changing your oil! In the event that your car is damaged, you’ll want to have enough coverage to restore your antique car to its former glory. Your American Insurance agent will help you decide what level of coverage is right for you. Give us a call today!