Cars, despite being vulnerable to break down due to a wide range of mechanical issues, are simultaneously very durable – often providing excellent driving for almost decades. In this blog entry, the Chicago vehicle recovery service experts here at Towing Chicago will detail the best ways to extend the lifespan of your car after it clocks 100,000 miles on its odometer.
The Importance of the 100,000 Mile Driving Limit
The typical vehicle has a lifespan of about 150,000 miles – which usually takes around 12 years to reach. If your vehicle is already at 100k miles, it will likely begin to experience some form of mechanical issue, and it behooves drivers to get your vehicle looked at to prevent these issues through maintenance. Through proper maintenance, your vehicle’s lifespan can increase nearly twice.
Important Maintenance for Vehicles with Over 100k Miles
Fluid Checking
Check transmission, brake, power steering, coolant, and fuel fluid levels. It’s possible that some of these fluids will have to be replaced rather than topped off if it’s been a while.
Belts / Hoses
Check to see if belts are loose or experiencing cracking. Check hoses for cracking and leaks as well.
Tires
Tires should be rotated every 5,000 to 10,000 miles depending on how often you drive and what kind of terrain you drive on. If your tire treads are worn down 1/16th of an inch to the tread depth at any point, make sure to replace them.
Brakes
Brakes should be checked once a year. Brake pads and brake rotors always wear out over time so it’s possible that you will have to replace them. Make sure there’s no leaks in the brake system as well.
Suspension
Make sure to check suspensions for wear in order to keep your tire system working and help you control your vehicle. If you ever hear weird noises from your suspension, or feel weird movement when driving, have your suspension serviced.
Compression
Perform a compression test to check for engine issues like valve wear or piston ring issues that can control power and fuel efficiency. Do this when the engine is cold.
Shocks / Struts
Shocks and struts are essential parts of your vehicle suspension system that allow your vehicle to drive smoothly over dips or bumps. After 100k miles, shocks and struts can wear out. Have them changed by a professional.
Oil
Oil should be changed every 3000 miles, and if it hasn’t, it absolutely must be changed after 100k miles, after which most oil is ineffective. Replace oil with high mileage synthetic blend oil designed to increase engine lifespan. Do the same with filters – change them whenever your oil is changed.
Timing Belts
Timing belts drive engine camshafts and open / close valves during engine combustion. After 100 miles, replace timing belts, as if it breaks, other parts of your engine can break. This can save you a great deal of cash in the long run.
Exhaust System
If you hear a weird noise coming from your vehicle, it might mean that the exhaust system needs to be replaced. Exhaust system metal can get damaged over time. If you’re having issues testing your emissions or hear loud engine noises when accelerating, the exhaust system likely needs to be replaced.
Catalytic Converters
Catalytic converters reduce harmful exhaust emissions by transforming them into less harmful substances. Catalytic converters get clogged up over time, diminishing fuel efficiency and causing engines to degrade. If your vehicle is not passing emissions tests and is driving poorly, you may need to replace your catalytic converter.
Oxygen Sensors
Oxygen sensors tell you how much air is flowing into your engine and how much fuel should leave it. When these sensors degrade over time, your fuel efficiency and engine performance will degrade – and even cause your car to misfire or vibrate when idling. Replace oxygen sensors after 100k miles.