Modern drivers know that investing in car maintenance and earning more miles it’s far less costly than it is to buy a new car that can keep up with their hectic lifestyles and long commutes.

Here are three simple maintenance strategies that can help keep your high-mileage vehicle strong all-year-round

Stay on top of oil changes

Regular oil changes usually need to take place once or twice a year. When it comes to high-mileage cars, the timing can enhance or diminish your vehicle’s lifespan.

Check your car’s manufacture recommendations on oil changes at high mileage and stick to them religiously. In the last couple of years, some manufacturers have increased the suggested oil change mileage from 3,000 to 5,000 and even 10,000. Ford, for example, recommends oil changes every 10,000 miles, while BMW advises owners to wait until they reach 15,000 miles. An oil live monitor can help estimate oil life, based on driving conditions.

You should also consider using a special high-mileage oil. This type of oil can lower oil consumption and give your engine a performance boost thanks to additives and seal enhancers designed to fix both internal and external leakage.

Have your mechanic check your brakes and tires

Depending on driving distances, types of roads and weather conditions, your brake pads and tires can accumulate wear and tear faster.

For instance, if you live in a city with extreme weather and commute on pockmarked and potholed city roads, chances are neither your tires, nor your brake pads are going to last long. Ask your mechanic to inspect your breaks during maintenance visits in order to avoid rotor damages. As for tires, make it a habit to regularly rotate yours and keep them properly inflated. Once again, the owner’s manual includes information about the optimal tire pressure for your vehicle. Be careful to check your tires in the morning, as the recommended pressure levels are based on cold tires.

Find a reliable car insurance provider

When shopping for a new auto insurance policy as a high-mileage driver, it’s important to choose a company that offers competitive rates and can also provide extended warranty coverage.

This ensures that once your vehicle passes the 100,000-mile mark, you keep your trips to the car shop — and out-of-pocket costs — at a minimum. Other benefits of buying an extended warranty include added resale value for your car and extra coverage such as reimbursements for rental cars, towing services and roadside assistance.

The best time to purchase an extended warranty is well before your original factory warranty expires. This way, you’ll be prepared for any unexpected problems like powertrain failures and transmission problems.

Your Trusted Auto Insurer

At Insure On The Spot, we make it our mission to offer you peace of mind and keep your high-mileage vehicle in great shape, just like we’ve done for over 1 million Chicago families. Contact us today for a free insurance quote. We’ll work with you to find a plan that suits your specific needs and budget.