Overview
The video presents 17 essential maintenance habits aimed at extending a vehicle’s lifespan to over 500,000 miles while avoiding costly repairs. The recommendations challenge manufacturer guidelines and emphasize proactive, real-world car care.
Oil and Fluid Maintenance
- Change engine oil every 3,000–5,000 miles, not the factory-extended interval, for maximum engine longevity.
- Always use synthetic oil for modern vehicles and conventional oil for older models, consulting the manual or mechanic for specifics.
- Replace the oil filter with OEM quality at each oil change; avoid cheap filters.
- Change transmission fluid every 60,000 miles (90,000 for hybrids); drain and fill instead of flushing if never changed before.
- Use only manufacturer-recommended transmission and coolant fluids without mixing types or colors.
- Flush coolant every 3–5 years to prevent corrosion and head gasket failure.
- Flush brake fluid every 2–3 years or when moisture exceeds 3% to maintain safe braking.
Critical Component Replacements
- Replace timing belts by 60,000–80,000 miles and inspect for wear; change tensioner, idler pulley, and water pump simultaneously.
- Install high-quality, vehicle-appropriate spark plugs every 60,000–70,000 miles; avoid bargain or incorrect plugs.
- Replace fuel filters every 30,000–60,000 miles, sooner if operating in dusty regions or with poor fuel quality.
- Change differential and transfer case fluids as per manual, more often if towing or using AWD.
Preventing Wear and Detecting Problems Early
- Replace the PCV valve every 30,000–50,000 miles or at signs of oil loss, smoke, or rough idle.
- Clean the mass air flow sensor every 12,000–15,000 miles to maintain engine performance and fuel economy.
- Align tires every 6,000–10,000 miles or at every tire rotation to prevent premature tire and suspension wear.
Daily Driving and Environmental Habits
- Avoid revving the engine when cold; let it idle for 30 seconds, then drive gently until warmed up.
- Limit engine idling to no more than a minute; excessive idling causes internal engine wear and carbon buildup.
- Wash the vehicle’s undercarriage monthly in winter or after exposure to salt, sand, or mud to prevent corrosion.
- Clean battery terminals regularly to prevent starting and electrical issues.
Monitoring and Tracking
- Listen and investigate any unusual car sounds promptly to avoid escalating repair costs.
- Keep a detailed maintenance log (paper or app) to track all services, spot patterns, and aid resale or warranty claims.