Just Purchased a Used Car? Don’t Forget These Critical Maintenance Tips!

Buying used is a great way to save money. It’s true that you pay a premium just to drive a “new” car off the parking lot, but depending on the age of your used car and how many miles it has, you’ll want to take some extra precautions. Some used cars are still new enough that they may have some valid warranties, and that’s great news for buyers. Ask your nearest car dealership for the full details, and make sure you understand the full rules of these warranties so that you can make the most of them. However, it’s still up to you to ensure you’re properly maintaining this “new to you” ride.

Here are a few maintenance musts so that your used car drives like new:

1. For vintage or collector cars, have a mechanic do a check before purchasing it. This isn’t necessarily a must for newer cars, but it’s always a good idea (especially if you’re buying from an owner and not a dealership). There are mobile mechanics in most major areas, and it’s well worth the cost—especially for collector cars. Otherwise, you’re simply trusting what the owner or dealership tells you. Dealerships have a lot more responsibility to be transparent, but there’s always the chance an issue could be hidden (and the seller might not even be aware of it). This is also the best way to check for flood damage. Flood damage is usually invisible to the average person, but can cause fatal outcomes, such as when the brake system is affected and suddenly fails. If you live in an area known for floods, don’t purchase a car without having all of its history.
2. Immediately take your used car in for a maintenance check. If you don’t have a mobile mechanic come to you before buying, take the vehicle as soon as possible to a mechanic. They can do a bumper to bumper inspection and tell you their recommendations as well as general timelines of what to expect. From new tires to changing the brake pads and the state of the timing belts, knowing the status of your vehicle is the first step in prolonging its life. 
3. Keep your car garaged whenever possible. The elements can do a number on a vehicle, from sun stripping the paint to bird droppings (which are very acidic) causing permanent stains. If you have access to a garage, use it. This is one of the easiest ways to keep your vehicle in good condition, and a great reason to stop using the garage for storage.
4. Getting regular oil changes and tire rotations really does make a difference. The good news is that you can take care of both these tasks yourself, if you’d like. It’s a good skill to have and can save money in the long run. Tires are expensive, and rotating them every three to six months can help extend their life. If you live in an area with severe winter conditions, investing in winter tires can also be a great help. 
5. Invest in high-quality wiper blades. If you notice squeaking or streaking on your windshield, either the wiper blades are worn out or they’re low quality. This is an easy and affordable way to maintain and upgrade your ride.
6. Follow the maintenance and gasoline instructions from the manufacturer. Every vehicle is unique, and the best way to enjoy a safe vehicle is to follow the recommended maintenance and gasoline directions. Some cars, including older collector vehicles, really do run best on premium gasoline. Some cars need more maintenance than others. These guidelines are meant to help keep your vehicle safe and secure.

As you shop for a used vehicle, remember to include maintenance in the overall costs. You’ll likely still save money buying used, but bear in mind that some cars are going to require higher maintenance than others.