San Diego residents have to pay a lot at the pump these days, and it can really add up. Many people are also keeping their vehicles for longer, with many staying with a car a year or two longer than they would before.
An estimated two-thirds of personal cars on local roadways have more than 75,000 miles, and the typical age of a car is over nine years. No one wants to be stranded on the side of the road after a breakdown. If you follow a regular schedule for auto maintenance in San Diego, it can be a real investment — in both your car and the safety of your family.
Maintaining an Older Vehicle
It can difficult to know what a higher-mileage car needs because many owners’ manuals don’t provide much information past 60,000 miles. Owners of older vehicles need to maintain accurate records and plan for preventative maintenance.
You need to figure out what services need to be performed at which interval by referencing your manul. For instance, for a service recommended every 15,000 miles, you can just stick with that interval for the duration of the car.
A higher-mileage engine will be under some duress, and auto mechanics in San Diego recommend that owners of older cars go with a severe service schedule, performing maintenance at shorter intervals. Consult with your manual or a local auto repair shop in San Diego to determine what service schedule is right for your car.
Keep Up with the Fluids
It is crucial that you stay up-to-date with your full-service oil change schedule because, with older engines, there has been more than enough time for gunk buildup. If you skip too many oil changes, it can really magnify auto problems in San Diego.
Another benefit is that you can make sure your other fluids are inspected and maintained at proper levels. Some of these fluids include:
- Power steering fluid
- Brake fluid
- Coolant
- Transmission fluid
These fluids need to be kept at appropriate levels, even with older or leaking gaskets.
Seals and gaskets will start to wear and become fragile over time, and it is advised that owners of older cars use high-mileage formulation oil and fluids, which contain special additives to prevent leaks. These formulations usually cost a bit more than the standard, but they are more than worth it if you want to prevent a costly repair bill.
High-Mileage Vehicles Require Special Repairs
Older cars also need specialized repairs that are not typical in newer vehicles, including:
- Timing belts
- Radiator hoses
- Suspension work
- Anti-lock brakes
- Airbags
- Water pumps
- Alternators
- Batteries
That may seem like a laundry list of services, but it will ultimately be cheaper than buying a new car.
Auto Maintenance in San Diego
Automobile Repair Shop San Diego is a family-owned and operated repair shop that has provided quality auto repair in San Diego for years. We offer you hassle-free estimates and repairs in San Diego starting with a precise assessment of your vehicle’s current issues. We will tow your vehicle for FREE to our shop, organize a rental car, and work directly with the insurance company to streamline the repair process. We will even pay up to $500 of your deductible. Contact us today at (619) 330-0862 to see how we can help.