HOW TO CUT THE COST OF OWNING YOUR CAR!!

Did you know that the longer you own your car, the less costly it should be to operate?  Experts say that your car should provide you with dependable service for at least 100,000 miles.  The care you take of your car will strongly affect your car's ability to maintain its value and keep operating costs low.  With each passing year, your car loses value more slowly (the good news is you can often reduce your insurance by cutting your coverage or your deductible.)  Studies show that by keeping your car for ten, rather than five, years you can reduce your overall expenses by one third.

So if you do decide to keep your car, how can you keep it relatively trouble free for the first 100,000 miles?

1. AVOID DIRTY LUBLICANTS!  Using dirty or inadequate lubricants will take a major toll on your car.  If you do one thing for your car, be sure to change the oil and filter every 3,000 miles, and 2,500 miles for turbocharged cars.  If you use synthetic oil you can extend your car's oil service to 6,000 miles.  Oil is the lifeblood of your car. As it lubricates the moving parts in your car's engine, it picks up dirt and small bits of metal.  These need to be removed before they do damage.  Also check the condition and level of other lubricants regularly.
2. TAKE CARE OF YOUR COOLANT!  No, this is not just for your air conditioner.  The coolant and cooling system ensures your engine does not overheat, and prevents expensive and major damage.  Change your coolant (antifreeze) every two years if green in color and if red or blue in color, change every four years.  Thermostats should be changed every four years.   Antifreeze has lubrication properties and if not changed, all related parts can suffer.  Also remember to change coolant hoses and clamps every 100,000 miles.
3. CHANGE YOUR BELTS!  If a belt snaps while you are driving, your car will sustain major, and expensive engine damage.  Check the condition of your belts regularly (ask us, we'll show you where and what to look for).  Normally, they need to be replaced every 6 years or 90,000 miles.  If they are worn or frayed - don't delay and change them immeditately, regardless of mileage.  Timing belt replacement is recommended along with accessory belts.

FACT:  Keeping your car for ten years versus five, will reduce operating costs by ONE THIRD!