Tips that Will Extend the Life of Your Car: Let’s face it, your car is your saving grace. Without it, you can get no where as easily, fast or conveniently. Your car treats you well by safely taking you from one place to another, you owe it back to your car to keep it up to speed on maintenance and not neglect it. Check out the following tips to learn how you can help prevent  future mishaps problems with your vehicle.

1.  Change the oil regularly. Make sure to change the oil at regular intervals. How often should you change it? Every 3,000 miles is usually suggested, but it depends on the general climate you live in and your driving patterns. If you live in a warm, non-dusty climate, for instance, you may be able to wait up to 7,500 miles between oil changes. Consult your owner’s manual for suggestions.

2. Make sure other fluids are topped off; such as antifreeze/coolant, brake fluid, power steering and transmission fluid.

3.  Tires. Tires not only need to be inflated to the proper PSI for gas mileage, but help lengthen the life of the tires themselves and provide safer driving conditions, while reducing the wear on other components of your vehicle.

4. Keep the body looking good. Make sure that you wash your vehicle regularly year round (never forget the underneath and wheel wells) and apply a wax every once in a while. If you keep the paint in good shape, you are also keeping the metal underneath in good shape (which will also maintain its overall value.)

5. Do not be neglectful. Remember to apply the parking brake periodically to keep it adjusted. It is also a good idea to occasionally switch on the AC in the winter and the heater in the summer. This keeps moving parts functioning smoothly and ensures that seals are well lubricated. Use the four-wheel drive capability on your SUVso that you’re engaging it every so often; this keeps moving parts lubricated and ensures that components are functioning properly.

6. Use synthetic oil. Synthetic oils are pricier than petroleum-based oils, but are well worth the extra cost. They are able to withstand higher engine temperatures and begin lubricating at lower temperatures. In short, they are superior lubricants and will thus extend your engine’s life.

7. Watch for warning signs. Remember to regularly check your instrument panel so you can catch a problem before it turns into a something bigger. You’ll also want to take a look under the hood every so often and check for drips and leaks. Remember, fluids are meant to stay inside the car, not on the ground underneath it. In addition, note any strange-sounding squeaks and clunks and report them to your mechanic posthaste.

8. Find a good mechanic. Develop a relationship with a skilled and scrupulous mechanic. If you don’t already have a good mechanic, ask trusted friends and family members for a referral – or even better, get a referral from a friend who owns the same car as you do. (Even though you already know Atlantic Car Care is one of the most reliable and trustworthy mechanics around.)

9. Take pride in your vehicle. Fix minor damage as soon as possible so you’re car does not end up looking like a heap.

10. Go to Atlantic Car Care and learn about their amazing deals service and let the mechanics handle the rest!

Follow these simple tips and you will find that your car gives you the same loving care in return!