Maintenance Tips for High-Mileage Cars in Pittsbur

Pittsburgh, PA, can get busy during the peak hours of the day, and it’s critical to have a vehicle in good condition to avoid a mechanical breakdown. When your car has been on the road for a few years, the risk of failing parts is more likely than lightly used and new models. But don’t worry — this Jim Shorkey Mitsubishi North Hills guide has a few tips you can use to keep your car in good condition. 

Engine Maintenance

Cars that have been weathered by time are prone to making noises. That’s because the oil is working harder to lubricate aged components. Therefore, it’s important to have the fluid switched every three to four months. If you want the oil to last longer, we recommend using the synthetic version. Sometimes, a synthetic blend may be more beneficial, especially if your vehicle is decades old. It’s also a good idea to double-check your coolant. This substance becomes more corrosive over time. When coolant is older than two years old, you should have it flushed and swapped for a fresh batch. After checking on the liquids that keep your powertrain running smoothly, your fuel economy and horsepower will stabilize making your trips along Bigelow Boulevard fun.

Brake Maintenance

Brake pads usually have a lifespan of four years or more. However, it’s not uncommon to have them last up to five years. The durability of your units depend on how often you drive and the type of pads. For example, ceramic brakes are typically the strongest pads you can buy. While they are more expensive than metallic and organic variants, high-mileage vehicles benefit from using ceramic brakes the most. You should also consider having the rotors changed, too. These metallic discs can become warped from general wear and tear, especially if you’ve been commuting on Bedford Avenue in order to get to work for the past 60 months. Fixing your brakes is an extensive process, so we encourage you to schedule an appointment for quick service.

Exterior Detailing

Your vehicle has a galvanized steel body that’s beautifully painted on the outer shell. Over time, dirt and grime can cause the surface to chip and rust. To protect your car’s aesthetics, you should have your model washed and waxed. While spring weather is mild in the Pittsburgh region, pollen can accumulate and slowly break down the particles on your vehicle. Cars with a lot of mileage are likely to encounter discoloration, since they’ve battled against the elements longer. However, a professional cleaning could decrease the chances of your vehicle encountering any damage to the paint. You should also focus on having dents and scratches repaired to avoid possible deterioration of metal. Fortunately, our body shop can handle these challenges for you. If you’re in need of assistance, visit our Service Department for a second opinion.

What’s Considered High Mileage for a Car?

• When a car reaches 100,000 miles, it may be considered as a high-mileage vehicle.