The rising cost of living and economic pressures continue to affect people across South Africa. Many people, just like you, are choosing to keep their cars for longer. The average age of a car in South Africa is between the ages of 11 and 20 years old.
If your car has high-mileage, there are some things you can do to ensure your car stays on the road as long as possible. No matter your car brand, your high-mileage vehicle can keep going for longer.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the best practices to help your high mileage car run smoothly for as long as possible.
How to maintain your high-mileage car
Just because your old car has a higher mileage than your mate’s 4X4, it doesn’t mean you need to upgrade to a new car. New cars may be out of your budget, and you’re not alone! You may have the highest mileage car among your mates, but that doesn’t mean it’s at the end of its life. High-mileage vehicles can still be reliable and cost-effective if properly maintained. Here are some helpful tips to help your high-mileage car stay on the road for longer, no matter its annual mileage:
Driving habits and techniques
While cars are sturdy and built to last, how you drive affects how long mileage cars will last. If you want to get the most out of your car, avoid abrupt acceleration and heavy braking. These driving behaviours can strain your engine and brakes. Instead, practise smooth acceleration and gentle braking to reduce strain on critical components. By driving thoughtfully, you can extend the life of your high-mileage car while minimising maintenance costs.
Monitoring and addressing early warning signs
You’ve just hit the M4 highway on your way to work, and you hear an unusual noise coming from under your bonnet. The roads in South Africa could play a role in it. Or, it’s simply something that’s suddenly gone wrong after a long time. Don’t ignore it. Even if your car has good mileage, you shouldn’t ignore any potential issues. Early detection and quick actions are key to preventing potential breakdowns. Pull over when it is safe to do so, and inspect the source of the noise. If you don’t notice any immediate issues, keep an ear out for signs of vibrations or changes in performance. It may be worth getting your car checked out by your mechanic or service centre. Addressing issues early can save you from more extensive repairs later on and keep your high-mileage car running smoothly.
Regular services
Maintaining your high-mileage car according to the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals is important. Regular services ensure that essential components like the engine, transmission, and suspension are thoroughly inspected and maintained. Adhering to these intervals helps to prevent major issues, ensures optimal performance, and can significantly extend the life of your vehicle. The better condition your car, the longer it will serve you. Ensure your maintenance history is up to date, and check your service history stays up to date too.
General maintenance
In addition to scheduled services, general maintenance on wear-and-tear items is essential. Replacing worn parts, like your brake pads, can prevent more significant issues down the road and ensure your car continues to perform at its best. Keeping your car’s overall condition in check helps to ensure your car keeps you safely on the road, and helps with fuel efficiency. Regular general maintenance helps your car perform at its best and ensures it remains reliable for longer.
Regular fluid changes
Fluids are crucial for keeping your car well lubricated and functioning smoothly. Low fluid levels can accelerate wear and potentially damage vital components. Regularly check and change your car’s fluids, including regular oil changes. Other fluids you need to check and change regularly are your car’s coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. High mileage cars may require more frequent fluid changes to maintain optimal performance. Follow your manufacturer’s recommendations for intervals and use quality fluids.
A Warranty for your high-mileage car
A Warranty for your high-mileage car protects your budget from the unpredictability of ageing car components. As your car racks up kilometres, the risk of unexpected breakdowns increases. Could you afford a hefty repair bill, like a R50,000 engine replacement, without warning? That’s when your Warranty steps in, covering repair costs that you can’t afford to pay.
At Bidvest Insurance, we recognise the individual needs of every car owner in South Africa. That’s why we provide Motor Warranty products designed to suit vehicles of different ages and mileage. Whether you own a new or pre-owned vehicle, our Warranties offer extensive coverage to protect your wallet from the hefty repair bills that come when your car with a high annual mileage experiences a breakdown. A Motor Warranty will also help you maintain your high-mileage car’s resale value, which will matter when you one day decide to become its previous owner and buy a brand new car.
Our Motor Warranty is designed to cover cars with a mileage of up to 350,000 kilometres. With our Warranty products, you can focus on enjoying the road ahead. Avoid expensive and unexpected repair costs with a Mechanical Warranty from Bidvest Insurance.