A quality automobile is a major investment. Therefore, doesn’t it make sense to extend its life as long as possible before you need to replace it? German automobiles, in particular, are known for their longevity and reliability. If cared for properly, a BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Porsche, or Volkswagen can run for hundreds of thousands of miles before it needs to be replaced. Luckily there are a number of steps you can take to help extend the life of your vehicle and keep it looking and running its best.

7 of the most important actions you can take to extend the life of your car:

• Practice proper preventative maintenance. Mechanics know that the drivers who get the most miles out of their automobiles before having to replace them are those who practice preventative maintenance. Don’t neglect to get your oil changed regularly. Old oil becomes sludge in your engine, which can lead to engine damage and costly repairs. Also be sure that your car’s other fluids are changed or topped off as needed.

• Get regular check-ups. Schedule a check-up for your car every six months with a reliable mechanic to make sure all of your vehicle’s systems are operating as they should. Keeping all of the documentation from these visits as evidence of what good care you have taken of your vehicle will increase your resale value when you decide to sell.

• Pay attention to your driving. Allow your car to warm up after starting it and accelerate slowly as the engine warms up. Since most wear and tear on your engine occurs in the first ten minutes of driving, try to consolidate short trips.

• Check tires and wheels regularly. Make sure tires are properly inflated and wheels are balanced. When your tires have uneven tread or your wheels are unbalanced, the subsequent vibration can put extra stress on your suspension components, which can lead to expensive repairs.

• Protect the exterior. Regular washing and waxing will help to protect your vehicle from rust. Likewise, if you have a garage, use it. Why use that space to store junk when it could be protecting your vehicle? Keep in mind that the ultraviolet rays of the sun are very harmful to a vehicle’s finish, so try to park in the shade whenever possible.

• Keep the interior clean. Keeping the inside clean will make it more enjoyable to drive and add to its resale value. Use a sunshade to protect your seats and dash from the harsh rays of the sun.

• Address minor problems early. If you notice a strange noise or vibration, don’t wait to get it checked out. Putting off minor repairs or maintenance can lead to costly major repairs down the road.

These simple actions can help you enjoy your vehicle for years to come. Keeping your vehicle running its best will not only save you the expense of buying another automobile, but will also save you money on fuel because your car will run more efficiently. If you live in the Tucson area and want the best maintenance and repair for your BMW, Audi, Mercedes Benz, Porsche, MINI Cooper, VW, or other German vehicle, contact European Auto Tech today.