When you spend tens of thousands of dollars on an SUV, you want it to last as long as possible. But keeping your vehicle running smoothly for 300,000 miles can feel impossible.
GOBankingRates spoke to Alain Zori, a mechanic and owner of M & M Auto Repairs in Phoenix, Arizona, for his best advice. With over 35 years of experience working on cars of every make and model, Zori knows exactly what separates the SUVs that barely hit 150K miles from the ones that go the distance. Here’s what he said.
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Change the Engine Oil and Filter Every 5,000 Miles
Zori says oil is the No. 1 thing you can do to make your engine last.
“Change the engine oil and filter every 5K miles with quality full-synthetic oil faithfully. This keeps all mechanical components of the engine clean and lubricated,” he said.
Skipping oil changes or using cheap oil can lead to sludge buildup and, eventually, costly engine damage.
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Stick to the Manufacturer’s Maintenance Schedule
Ignoring your SUV manufacturer’s maintenance schedule will cost you down the road when it comes to your safety, reliability and longevity.
“Keep up with the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule,” Zori said. “This reduces wear and tear and prolongs the life of the hydraulic and mechanical components.”
Use Quality Fuel and Hit the Highway Often
It may be tempting to fill up at the cheapest gas station you find, but poor-quality fuel can lead to carbon buildup inside your engine. Zori also recommends regular highway driving, which helps your engine burn off deposits that can form during short trips.
Inspect Tires and Alignment Every Six Months
Tire wear affects how your entire vehicle performs. Poor alignment can stress the suspension and steering components, leading to expensive repairs down the line.
“Inspect tires and wheel alignment every six months. This is for safety and good handling of the vehicle,” Zori advised.
Get a Yearly Professional Inspection
Even if your SUV seems fine, an annual inspection can catch potential issues early before they leave you covering a huge repair bill.
“Have the vehicle inspected once yearly. This prevents premature breakdowns,” Zori said.
Keep It Clean Inside and Out
Dirt and grime can eat away at paint and metal, leading to rust and corrosion over time.
“Maintain cleanliness of the vehicle inside and out,” Zori said. “This prevents premature body damage from rust and corrosion.”
Drive Safely and Responsibly
No amount of maintenance can save an SUV from careless driving. Smooth acceleration, gentle braking and avoiding potholes can all help protect your vehicle’s mechanical systems.
“A simple fender bender could do serious damage on an older vehicle,” noted Zori.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: I Asked a Mechanic How To Make My SUV Last 300,000 Miles: Here’s What He Said
