When you’re shopping for a used car, you probably aren’t thinking much about the kinds of vehicle service and repair you might need to have within the coming months. The fact of the matter is, however, that used vehicles are more likely to need service sooner than new vehicles. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it is something you need to be aware of.
When you first drive your used car home, there are some maintenance concerns you need to put on your radar. Within the first few weeks of driving your car, you want to pay careful attention. You want to listen for any strange sounds, and pay attention to odd smells such as burning oil. Inspect the vehicle once a week or so just to make sure everything is looking the way that it should.
Within the first few weeks of owning your new car, you’ll want to take it to your mechanic to have several service and repair items looked at. He should check all of your fluids, making sure that none of your levels are low. He should inspect your tires, listen to your engine, and give the car a good going-over. You’ll possibly need to have your radiator flushed, have service on your transmission or, at the very least, get an oil change.
The best way to make your used car last is to take good care of it.