How to Maintain a Car at 100,000 Miles

That little baby of yours is all grown up. *Sniff.* Continue to care for it just as you've always done, and maybe it will still drive you to the shopping mall and bridge tournaments in your later years.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Automotive Repair Manual
• Basic Auto Emergency Kits
• Car Creepers

1. Perform a general tune-up - checking plugs, plug wires, belts, coolant, filters and timing - plus all inspections done at 50,000 miles (see "Maintain a Car at 50,000 Miles," under Related eHows).

2. While lying on your back, check under the car for rust.

3. Check the alignment and wheel bearings. Have the alignment adjusted by a mechanic as needed. Replace bearings if worn (see "Diagnose an Alignment Problem," under Related eHows.).

4. Have a mechanic check the engine's compression.

5. Check the hoses for corrosion.

6. Check the paint for scratches or peeling. Touch up as needed.

7. Replace steering wheel covers, floor mats and seat covers as needed.

Tips & Warnings

• Many modern cars should run almost like new at 100,000 miles.

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on 11/22/2005 I have had 3 cars so far, and each lasted over 200,000 miles. I sold them because I wanted to buy a new car, not because there was anything wrong with them.

I changed the oil every 5,000 miles when the car was still relatively new. Today's modern cars go up to 5000 miles between each oil change. As the car gets older or at about 70,000 miles, I change the oil more frequently (about every 3000 miles).

I always do a major maintenance at every 50,000 miles interval. I don't have time and don't have a garage, so I usually let the dealership do it for about $400.

If you change your oil regularly and do major maintenance on your car, I guarantee that it will last over 200,000 miles.

on 11/22/2005 Make sure you change your oil every 3,000 miles or less. I have a '95 Camaro with 137,453 miles on her. ... She runs better than my '95 Neon with only 30,000 miles.

on 11/22/2005 You can expect to get longer life and fewer maintenance problems if you change the fluid and filter around the 100,000 mile mark. It is inexpensive and very easy for the backyard mechanic.

on 11/22/2005 Give yourself plenty of time to
stop using steady pressure. My '94 Plymouth has 141,000 miles on the original brakes. I have them gone over at each service check.