Older Car Maintenance in 5 Steps

5 STEPS FOR CARING FOR AN OLDER CAR
Stick to a regular maintenance routine, follow guidelines in your owner’s manual and get your car serviced at recommended intervals.  

1. Purchase a Proven Model
Do your research to choose a reputable car.
Get the best warranty and safety features you can afford.
Negotiate routine maintenance into the cost.
Buying used? Have a trusted mechanic check it out first.

2. Get a Good Mechanic
Find a qualified mechanic you trust to be your go-to for repairs.
Have your car diagnosed and repaired at the first sign of a problem.
Use quality, manufacturer-recommended parts.

3. Mind Your Maintenance Milestones
Add these preventive checks and changes to your maintenance routine as your car begins to put on the miles.

Every 5,000 miles / 6 months

• Get a lube, filter and oil change
• Check tire pressure, condition and wheel alignment
• Rotate and balance tires
• Inspect shocks for leaks, cracks, damage or wear

Every 25,000 miles / 2 years

• Change brake pads and fluids
• Flush and change transmission fluid
• Flush and change coolant
• Check and change filters

Every 50,000 miles / 3 years

• Change tires
• Resurface or replace rotors and drums
• Check and change belts (accessory drive, timing, alternator, etc.)
• Change radiator hose
• Repack the wheel bearings
• Flush and change fuel lines

Every 75,000 miles / 4-5 years

• Change battery
• Change water pump
• Check CV (constant velocity) joints
• Change brake lines

4. Watch for Warning Signs
Pay attention! Get your car to your mechanic as soon as you notice:

• Unusual tire wear
• Poor acceleration    
• Pulling / drifting to one side
• Trouble starting car
• Idle is rough
• Leaking fluids
• Engine misfires or surges
• Dashboard indicator lights are on
• Fuel consumption increases
• Car is grinding or shaking
• Unusual noises or odors

5. Keep It Clean
Regular cleaning is as important to protecting and preserving your car as regular maintenance.

Interior: 

• Vacuum at least once a month
• Wipe and apply UV protectant to plastic and vinyl surfaces every 3 months
• Park in the shade or use a sunscreen
• Have the car professionally detailed

Exterior: 

• Park under cover, if possible
• Wash at least once a month
• Wax whenever water no longer beads on the paint
• Remove any snow, salt or water as soon as possible after exposure
• Have a professional sealant/protective undercoating applied

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REFERENCES 
http://www.realsimple.com/work-life/money/saving/car-maintenance-schedule 
http://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/how-to/a7980/how-to-care-for-an-aging-car-10951072/ 
https://www.kbb.com/car-advice/articles/top-ten-car-care-tips/ 
http://www.thefreefinancialadvisor.com/5-steps-to-care-for-an-older-car/ 
http://coolridesonline.net/news-blog/engine-powertrain/maintenance-and-care-to-keep-your-older-car-on-the-road/
http://lifehacker.com/the-preventative-maintenance-you-need-to-do-on-your-car-1394196018 
https://www.autohausaz.com/html/steering-and-suspension-systems.html 
https://www.edmunds.com/car-care/broke-with-a-beater-how-to-maintain-an-old-car.html 
http://cars.about.com/od/adviceforowners/a/ag_livepast100k.htm

The Travelers Indemnity Company and its property casualty affiliates. One Tower Square, Hartford, CT 06183 

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This material does not amend, or otherwise affect, the provisions or coverages of any insurance policy or bond issued by Travelers. It is not a representation that coverage does or does not exist for any particular claim or loss under any such policy or bond. Coverage depends on the facts and circumstances involved in the claim or loss, all applicable policy or bond provisions, and any applicable law. Availability of coverage referenced in this document can depend on underwriting qualifications and state regulations. 

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