How to Keep Your Car for 400,000 Miles or More

August 27, 2010

There are many theories about when to get an oil change for your car. However, one thing that’s for sure is that your car will always need oil changes. Car maintenance is key in preserving the value of your vehicle. Although it may be costly at times, proper vehicle care can help ensure the longevity of your ride.

A recent survey conducted by Jiffy Lube International proved that American drivers aspire to keep their vehicles running smoothly for a long time. More than half of U.S. drivers want to have 150,000 miles on their cars before replacing it, and over 25 percent of those surveyed hoped for 250,000 miles. How does one achieve such feats? Oil changes.

Nearly all drivers believed that oil changes are the key to prolonging the life of their cars. One man from Lafayette, CA proclaims that his 17-year-old Jeep Cherokee runs just fine after reaching 400,000 miles.

According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, average vehicle age has increased to 9.2 years, nearly three more than 1990. NPD’s Car Care Trac further indicates that these nine-year-old cars have an average of 110,000 miles. As drivers opt for keeping vehicles longer, many are looking for even more ways to extend their vehicle’s life. Nine out of ten surveyed agreed that having other parts checked during regular oil changes is a convenient and effective way to preserve vehicle value.

Although most all Americans recognized the value of regular oil changes, there are still a few aspects of vehicle maintenance that are frequently neglected. Next time you get your oil change consider asking for the following services to ensure the health and longevity of your vehicle:

Check tire pressure and alignment
Fill windshield washer fluid
Brake fluids, lights, belts and wiper blade inspection
Rotate tires

Fortunately, Jiffy Lube Signature Service Oil Change is designed for Americans interested in addressing all these needs in one 30-minute visit, allowing drivers to not only preserve the value of their car but also keep it running longer. Additionally, Jiffy Lube has also created a community of vehicle owners interested in learning more about maintaining the life of their vehicles. Its new Facebook Fan Page, Keeping My Ride Alive, allows followers to tout their vehicle’s longevity and odometer ratings as well as share stories, pictures and tips.

Alyse Speyer
AskPatty Contributor

Alyse Speyer has been an independent Internet marketing consultant for the past four years. She has a wealth of experience in content creation and management, social media marketing, brand positioning, SEO, SEM, email marketing and web strategy. Clients include: The Cobalt Group, Online Marketing Summit, AskPatty, Sipe & Associates, LLC. Connect with Alyse via Facebook and LinkedIn.