Tips To Maintain Your Older Car

Make a Maintenance Plan and Stick with It

Maintaining an older car requires a little more attention, but if your form your plan and make sure you’re staying on schedule, you’ll get to enjoy your car for as long as possible. Figuring out the right maintenance plan can be tough, but this is a service we’re comfortable offering. From serpentine belts to oil changes, our factory recommended car maintenance service addresses every critical component inside and outside of the vehicle. For any factory recommendations specific to your car, always check the owner’s manual to confirm you’re addressing the most important systems within your vehicle. Not sure where to start? We can help!

Drive Sensibly and Efficiently

There are all kinds of tips and tricks for improving your overall miles per gallon. Driving with efficiency in mind will not only add significant length to your fuel’s lifespan, but it decreases unnecessary wear and tear on critical engine components, brake system, and even the tires! On the flip side, it is encouraged that you drive your older vehicle at least once a week for a bit. The reason being that you want to keep all systems in your car engaged and active. Leaving a car unused for long periods can cause significant damage versus occasionally driving said vehicle. These regular adventures will also alert you to any changes or issues that may have reared up. Take time to listen to the hums of your car. Are there any new vibrations? If you’ve noticed any changes, it is best to get these addressed before they can progress to bigger problems.

Get Your Timing Belt Inspected or Replaced

Here’s the truth: your car will not run without a timing belt. There is a general recommendation that says you should have your timing belt (or chains) replaced every 100,000 miles. While there are a lot of old wives’ tales regarding car maintenance, your timing belt is certainly not worth the gamble. Unfortunately, for many car owners, this can be a tricky belt to visually inspect for imperfections, weak points, or problems. In the event that the timing belt should break while driving – as it tends to do when it finally breaks – the engine will be severely damaged. This will result in either needing to replace the engine or the vehicle itself. The average cost to replace this belt is significantly less than engine replacement or purchasing a new car. If your car is approaching high mileage or has passed the 100,000-mile mark but you’re not sure what the condition of the timing belt, give us a call today!

AAMCO MN Keeps Your Old Car Running Like New

When you’ve found the car you love, it is like a part of the family, and has a special role to play. At AAMCO Minnesota, we understand this relationship and want to be a resource you can count on when any maintenance is required. Call us or book an appointment online and be sure to check out our great special offers. Those who know, go to AAMCO.

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