It all boils down to maintenance and how much care you provide during the course of ownership. So here are a few ways you can really extend the life of your car and get the most use over time.

Consistent Car Maintenance. See the factory recommendations.

This includes oil changes, general maintenance, including periodic service of the brake systems, cooling systems, transmission, radiator — and so on. Usually the car maker provides a service schedule with their new cars, listing what should be done, when it should be done according to mileage accrued or time passed. Most drivers take these as “suggestions” or never look at the recommended maintenance schedule at all. This could eventually cost you thousands of dollars in future repairs. The maintenance schedule is there for a reason. Ignore them at the risk of car breakdown and wallet deflation. For example: Failure to have an ABS brake system periodically flushed can lead to the premature failure of major (and expensive) parts like the ABS pump. Or failure to get regular oil changes could greatly reduce engine life.

Are you a normal driver or a severe driver

Most people are under the impression that they have to do oil changes and filter swaps every 3000 miles, when in fact upon closer examination of their driving style and frequency qualifies as “severe use” — and the intervals for service and maintenance are actually much shorter. Often times the recommended maintenance suggested by automakers for what’s considered as “normal” or “reasonable” driving. However only you know how you drive and if you are an aggressive driver, you may be incurring more wear and tear than the average car owner. For example, if you live in a city/suburban area and your driving includes a lot of stop-and-go action, then you usually qualify for the “severe” (or “heavy duty”) intervals, which tend to be much shorter. It’s important to follow the right schedule, in either case. You are better off spending $50 dollars for your oil changes that having to get a new engine or new car entirely.

Car service by trained technicians

Today’s cars are more complex than ever with computer systems, sensors and all kinds of incredible technology. Unless you are a trained technician, a do-it-yourself approach to maintaining your car could certainly be detrimental to the vehicle and in some cases – you. Most of the time, “do-it-yourself” work can result in botched repairs and improperly done service that accelerates wear and tear. It’s like deciding to perform a medical procedure on your self – hoping to learn as you go – without having the credentials and training of a medical doctor. You are almost always better off taking your vehicle to a reputable auto repair and diasgnostic shop and having your car taken cared of by a professional. If you want your car to last, avoid fiddling around with things yourself. It’ll save you money and it’ll extend the life of your vehicle.

Smart Driving Style

Cars are fun machines. There’s no denying it. Unfortunately, sudden accelerations, peel outs, start and stops, throwing the car around corners and whipping doughnuts – though fun – is ultimately killing your gas mileage, stressing your engine, wearing out your tires and taking years of the life of the car.

Focus on driving in a steady way keeping an even foot on the gas and taking your time. If you drive a manual transmission, do your best not to hold the clutch in while idling at the light. Instead put the transmission in neutral and wait for the light to change. Avoid sudden accelerations, late braking and any other form of severe type driving. This will help you save gas ultimately save money.

Last but not least – Wash your car regularly.

Just like we feel great when we are dressed nicely, we equally feel awesome when our cars are clean and shiny. Just remember that a clean car is NOT a substitute for internal maintenance. There is no point having a shiny car that can’t make it down the road. that being said the exteranl parts of our vehicles are important and regular washes with periodic detailing will allow you to spot dents, scratches and other vehicle wear and tear that may need to be addressed.

1. Drive Light
The heavier your vehicle is, the more demands it’ll make on your fuel. So a great way to drive light is to empty the trunk of all unnecessary items. Take specific action to reduce drag by keeping the windows up when driving on the freeway, and most of all keep your car free of any debris or dirt by washing it regularly.

2. Tires
Keep your tires at the recommended pressure. You can usually find this information in your vehicle’s manual. Always have a tire pressure gage handy so you can check and make sure that you have the right amount of pressure in the tires. This habit will greatly reduce the amount of fuel wasted by driving on tires with low pressure.

3. Drive Smart
Completely discard all aggressive driving measures (doughnuts, racing, peel-outs etc.) This will extend the life of your car, reduce gas consumption and possibly keep you alive. Avoid driving at irregular speeds. To achieve this maintain at least a 2 car distance between you and the car in front of you. This will help prevent your from having to brake suddenly or accelerate unnecessarily. Also group your errands in fewer trips. Accomplish as much as you can while you are out and about. The idea here is to just have a good strategy to reduce how much gas you use when you drive your car.

4. Car Maintenance.
This should go without saying. Just like some people have a doctor they trust, you should have a reputable mechanic you trust with the maintenance of your vehicle. Get to know them as close as you can as they can be a powerful resource for keeping your car running and reducing vehicle expenses. Oil changes, filters and engine tune-ups greatly contribute to fuel efficiency in your vehicle.

5. Get Gas at a Cheaper Price with Technology
These days, there are all kinds of websites and apps that are very helpful in showing the gas prices of different gas stations in your area. Before you leave the house check your smartphone or go online and research which stations have the lowest gas prices. This will be a good way to stretch your money a little further!