5 Ways to Lengthen the Life of Your Chevrolet

Second only to your home, a car is one of the single most expensive purchases you’ll have throughout your lifetime. Because of its price tag, it’s important to keep your vehicle out of the repair shop and running smoothly. One of the best ways to do this is through routine maintenance, DIY repairs, and staying on a schedule. To lengthen the life of your Chevrolet, follow these simple tips.

Change the Oil Regularly

Oil is the lifeblood of your car engine. It acts as a lubricant between all the moving parts in the engine, keeping friction to a minimum. This helps keep the temperature of the engine somewhat regulated, and effectively reduces wear and tear. Because of this, it’s important to change your oil regularly, whether you do it yourself of take it to a shop or quick lube. You should also consult your owner’s manual for the proper amount of miles between oil changes. While older cars and many professionals claim that oil changes are necessary every 3,000 miles, newer cars typically only need their oil changed every 5,000 or 7,500 miles.

Slow Your Pace

Although it isn’t fun to drive the speed limit or under it, it’s a great way to make sure that your Chevrolet runs for hundreds of thousands of miles. By staying under the posted speed limit, or generally around 55 miles per hour, you don’t force your engine to undertake an extra workload. This removes stress off the pistons and other components of the engine, thus improving the life.

Leave the Car at Home

It’s not a coincidence that leaving your car at home and opting for a bike ride or walk extends the life of your vehicle. Starting an engine to go a short distance and then turning it off is detrimental, as it causes the engine and starter to work harder. If you have to go under a mile and weather permits, try getting the exercise. Your body and your Chevy will thank you.

Rotate Your Tires

Rotating your tires is an inexpensive way to make your Chevrolet ride smoother, as well as lengthen the life of the vehicle and tires. Typically, you’ll want to rotate the tires once every 6,000 miles. This reduces uneven wear and tear on your tires and prevents possible catastrophe such as a rupture or blown tire.

Start Slowly

When you first start your car, the engine isn’t up to its optimum temperature, especially if it’s cold outside. That’s why it’s important to let your car run for a while and let the engine warm up, as it performs better and gets oil to all the necessary parts of the engine. As a general rule, wait at least 30 seconds before you drive off. This will help your engine perform better and give you time to pick the perfect radio station.

Prolonging the life of your car isn’t difficult. It just requires a bit of planning, routine maintenance, and listening to your vehicle. If you do this, your Chevrolet should stay healthy for years to come.