12 Habits to Make Your Car Last Over 500k Miles Without Repairs

Summary

This video reveals 12 expert habits that can help car owners extend their vehicles' lifespan to 500,000 miles without major repairs. From defending against rust and maintaining engine fluid levels, to performing simple tasks like checking the PCV valve and rotating tires, these maintenance practices can prevent costly breakdowns. Additional tips include using your car's power steering fluid wisely, being gentle on cold starts, and addressing small leaks immediately. With these preventative habits, car owners can avoid expensive repairs and keep their vehicles running smoothly for half a million miles.

Takeaways

• 😀 Rust prevention is crucial to avoid expensive repairs. Regularly wash your car and apply oil-based undercoatings to protect the undercarriage.
• 😀 Taking a weekly highway drive allows your engine to reach optimal temperature, helping burn off moisture and prevent sludge buildup.
• 😀 Always refuel your car before the tank drops below a quarter to avoid damaging the fuel pump and introducing debris into the system.
• 😀 Power steering fluid should be flushed every 30,000-50,000 miles to maintain the longevity of your steering rack and prevent costly repairs.
• 😀 Change your differential and transfer case oils every 50,000 miles to prevent premature wear and expensive gear replacements.
• 😀 Small leaks, sounds, or drips should be addressed immediately to prevent larger engine failures and expensive repairs.
• 😀 Be gentle with your transmission by avoiding harsh shifts, using the parking brake on inclines, and respecting towing limits.
• 😀 Allow your engine time to warm up before accelerating aggressively to prevent engine wear, especially in cold weather.
• 😀 Regularly replace the PCV valve to ensure clean engine oil and avoid costly engine damage, changing it every 30,000 miles.
• 😀 Flush your brake fluid every three years to prevent moisture absorption, which can affect braking performance and cause corrosion.

Q & A

What is the main reason cars fail according to the video?

The main reason cars fail is not age, but bad maintenance habits. Over 75% of major breakdowns are caused by poor maintenance, rather than the car simply aging.

How can you defend your undercarriage from rust?

To defend your undercarriage from rust, perform seasonal high-pressure washes to remove corrosive grime, especially after snowstorms or exposure to salt. You can also apply oil-based undercoatings to prevent rust from forming.

Why is taking a weekly 20-minute highway run important for your car's engine?

Taking a weekly 20-minute highway run allows the engine to reach full temperature, evaporating moisture, burning off fuel dilution, and helping to prevent sludge buildup, which extends engine life.

What is the impact of running your fuel tank too low frequently?

Running your fuel tank below a quarter tank often causes the fuel pump to suck air instead of fuel, which leads to overheating, premature wear, and failure of the fuel pump. It can also stir up debris from the bottom of the tank, clogging filters and injectors.

Why should you flush your power steering fluid regularly?

Power steering fluid should be flushed every 30,000 to 50,000 miles because, over time, it picks up debris and oxidizes. Neglecting it can lead to pump failure, expensive repairs, and the need for early replacement of the steering rack.

How often should you change the differential and transfer case oil?

Differential and transfer case oil should be changed every 50,000 to 60,000 miles to prevent the oil from breaking down and causing damage to the gears. Regular changes help avoid expensive repairs, such as differential rebuilds.

What happens if you ignore small leaks and noises in your car?

Ignoring small leaks and noises can lead to bigger, more expensive problems. For example, a small radiator cap leak can cause your engine to overheat, while a tiny oil leak can lead to engine damage. Addressing small issues early can save you thousands in repairs.

How can you extend the life of your transmission?

To extend the life of your transmission, avoid shifting between drive and reverse while the car is still moving, use the parking brake, respect your vehicle's towing limits, and maintain regular fluid changes to reduce heat and shock load on the transmission.

Why should you be gentle on a cold engine, especially in winter?

Revving a cold engine increases wear because the oil is thick and not fully circulated, leading to metal-on-metal contact. Gradually easing into your drive, especially in freezing temperatures, helps the oil reach optimal temperature and flow, reducing wear and extending engine life.

How does the PCV valve affect your engine's longevity?

The PCV valve helps prevent harmful gases from accumulating in the crankcase. If it fails, it can lead to oil leaks, clogged catalytic converters, and other costly engine problems. Replacing the PCV valve every 30,000 miles can prevent these issues.

Why is it essential to flush your brake fluid regularly?

Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which lowers its boiling point and can cause vapor bubbles to form during braking. These bubbles lead to a soft brake pedal, and moisture also causes internal corrosion of brake components. Flushing brake fluid every 2 to 3 years prevents these issues and extends the life of your braking system.

How can you prevent failure of rubber components like belts and hoses?

Rubber components such as belts and hoses wear out over time due to heat, vibration, and exposure to oil. Inspect them regularly, especially around the 60,000-mile mark, and replace them when they show signs of wear. Timely replacement prevents failures that could lead to serious engine damage.

What is the importance of tire rotation and alignment?

Regular tire rotation and alignment prevent uneven tire wear, reduce strain on suspension components, and improve fuel efficiency. This simple habit can save you from costly repairs and extend the life of your tires, suspension, and steering system.