By Julia Freeman
Modern vehicles are engineered for remarkable durability. It’s common to see cars clocking six-figure mileages and still running strong, provided they receive consistent maintenance. Interestingly, a car used primarily for short trips might encounter more issues than one that has accumulated high mileage on highways.
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Regular car maintenance is the cornerstone of a long and healthy vehicle lifespan. While contemporary cars and engines boast superior manufacturing precision compared to older models – largely thanks to advanced automation – diligent care remains essential.
Servicing
Today, many car manufacturers recommend service intervals of 10,000 miles or more. Some even utilize intelligent sensor data to dynamically adjust service recommendations based on actual driving conditions, moving away from fixed schedules. This contrasts sharply with the past, where servicing might have been necessary every 5,000 miles. Modern advancements in lubricant technology play a significant role, enabling them to maintain peak performance for extended periods.
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Alt: Close-up of a technician checking tyre pressure with a digital pressure gauge, showcasing a routine car maintenance task.
Even if your annual mileage is low, annual car servicing, or at a minimum, an oil change and thorough inspection, remains crucial. Prioritizing an annual oil and filter change, regardless of computer prompts, is a proactive measure to safeguard your engine and contribute to its longevity and reliability.
Age of the Vehicle
As vehicles age, component wear and tear is inevitable. Car batteries, for example, typically require replacement every four to five years as their ability to hold a charge diminishes. Water pumps often need replacing around the 60,000-mile mark. It’s prudent to replace the drive belt, tensioners, and related components concurrently with the water pump to prevent future issues.
Timing belts also have a replacement schedule dictated by the manufacturer’s recommendations, which vary across makes and models. Consult your vehicle handbook for specific guidance. Similar to water pumps, it’s advisable to replace tensioners and auxiliary drive belts at the same time as the timing belt. Timing chains generally offer longer lifespans, but consistent oil changes are paramount for their durability.
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Alt: A car tyre pressure gauge displaying a reading, emphasizing the importance of regular tyre pressure checks for vehicle maintenance and safety.
Exhaust systems typically need replacing every five to six years. Tyre lifespan is influenced by mileage and driving style, with variations between brands and models. However, even on low-mileage vehicles, tyres may begin to degrade after approximately five years.
With proper care and attention, your car should provide reliable service for many years and tens of thousands of miles. At Protyre, we are dedicated to helping you achieve this. Our certified technicians are equipped to perform routine servicing on all makes and models. We also offer and install new tyres from leading brands like Sumitomo and Bridgestone, along with battery and exhaust replacement services. Find your nearest Protyre garage using our website’s Garage Finder, or book a free safety check via the button below.
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About the author
By Julia Freeman Julia is Head of Brand Marketing for Micheldever Group, passionate about customer engagement and meeting their automotive needs across the business.
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