We’ve worked in the automotive world for years here at OntarioCarsOnCredit.com and we’ve heard numerous times that cars just aren’t built like they used to be. My car is a 1997 Chrysler Sebring with 130,000 miles on it. I’ve never had any major problems where I had to drop thousands of dollars into my car.

I’m not a mechanic; as a matter of fact I couldn’t tell you a spark plug from a glow plug. If my dad had taught us one thing about a car it was that if you take care of it car the thing will run for a very long time. So I guess my question to those who say cars don’t last that long is, how well is your vehicle routinely maintained? What do I mean by this? Here is my list of what I do to keep my car running perfectly.

• Check your oil level. With the engine off, pull out the dipstick and clean it with a towel. There are marks that will tell you when it’s full and when you need to add oil. Reinsert the clean dipstick, remove it and look the level. If it’s low, it may be time for an oil change anyway which should be done every 3,000 miles or 3 months. If the oil is foamy or if it smells of gasoline, make an appointment to have your car serviced unless you’re ready to apply for another used car loan, because we can get you car loans with any credit!
• Check the transmission fluid. Skip this step if you have a manual transmission. This is done the same way as checking the oil, but with the engine running and warm. If it is low, slowly add fluid a pint at a time to avoid overfilling, and only use the type of fluid listed in your owner’s manual. If the fluid is brown or muddy-looking, make an appointment to have your car serviced.
• Check the power steering fluid. Skip this step if you don’t have power steering. Use the dipstick attached to the cap of the power steering fluid reservoir. It shouldn’t fluctuate more than the marks on the dipstick indicate is normal. If you notice you are adding power steering fluid more than once a year. Make an appointment to have your car serviced.
• Check your brake fluid. Most vehicles have a transparent reservoir that will allow you to see the level without needing a dipstick. It’s normal to add brake fluid as your brakes become worn, however if the level drops suddenly, take your car in for service immediately. Never substitute anything for brake fluid.
• Check the coolant level. DO NOT to open the radiator cap while the engine is hot. You could burn yourself and have coolant go all over. Instead, look at the reserve tank. You’ll see two marks for “full cold” and “full hot.” Add coolant when the engine is cold, and if you have to add coolant often, make an appointment to have your car serviced.
• Check the battery. Make sure that the top of the battery is dry. Check that the terminals are tight and not corroded. Have it checked at an auto parts store that offers this service if it looks bad.
• Check the windshield washer fluid. If you use it a lot to wash your windshield, you will have to refill it often. Diluting the fluid with water will clean better, but in the winter use it full strength. Also replace your wiper blades when they are worn out. Any auto parts store can help you install them if you’re not sure how to do it.
• Check your tire pressure and the tread. The owner’s manual will tell you how much pressure each should have. Check the pressure when the tires cold. Use the gauge that’s attached to the air hose at a gas station or ask to borrow one at the gas station. While you’re checking the tire pressure, take a look at the tires to see if they’re damaged or worn. You don’t want to find out while trying to stop in a slippery situation that your treads are worn out.

Keeping your vehicle well maintained can exponentially increase the life of your vehicle, and also put money back into your pocket when it comes time to sell. Even if you plan on financing an auto loan, having a used car that’s in great condition can be used as an excellent bargaining chip for a trade-in or down payment.