Vehicle Maintenance for Older Cars

In order to avoid costly expenses, it’s critical to maintain your vehicle, especially for older models. If you’re willing to care for your car, you’ll be rewarded with a car that can last more than 100,000 miles. Com-Co Insurance Agency Inc in Mount Prospect, IL has independent insurance agents with expert knowledge regarding caring for your vehicle starting with auto insurance.

Follow the Manufacturer’s Recommendations

Each vehicle comes with an owner’s manual that contains maintenance recommendations. Generally, the guidelines for new vehicles state that you should change the oil every three months or 5,000 miles. As your car ages, you’ll need more specified routines that include changing the spark plugs, replacing the fluids, and rotating the tires at specific intervals.

The First 100,000 Miles

After the first 100,000 miles, it’s important for the timing belt to be changed. The timing belt helps to rotate the crankshaft and camshaft in the engine so that the valves will open and close properly. When the timing belt is not functioning in the correct manner then your vehicle could experience severe shaking while idling, oil pan could leak, and the engine could begin to smoke.

You’ll also want to flush the coolant system. Coolant keeps your engine from overheating and helps prevent corrosion. It is recommended to flush the system every three years after 100,000 miles. 

Changing or replacing shocks, struts, oxygen sensors, belts, and hoses is also recommended after 100,000 miles. 

As long as you follow the guidelines for your vehicle, you should be in good shape when your car gets older. Consult with your insurance agents at Com-Co Insurance Agency Inc in Mount Prospect, IL to get started with auto insurance. Our agents can also help you secure home, life, commercial, and umbrella insurance as well.