7 Steps to Care for Your Clunker Car

Photo by kevinkarnsfamily

Cash for Clunkers was a great government program for those who could afford a new car, but what about those of us who can barely afford the clunker we own? Our only real alternatives are to either fix big problems as they arise or perform preventative maintenance.

As with the human body, preventative maintenance tends to be much cheaper in the long run than, for example, waiting for your timing-belt to break and trash the entire engine. Experts recommend these seven steps to keep your clunker on the road as long as possible. 

1. Change the Oil and Filter: The most important step to car maintenance is changing your oil and filter every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, or whatever period is recommended in the owner's manual. Over time, your oil breaks down and your filter becomes clogged with contaminants. Periodic oil and filter changes keep your engine clean on the inside. WikiHow has an easy-to-follow guide to changing your own oil and filter.

2. Check the Tire Pressure: A monthly air check, including the spare, ensures better ride, handling, traction and safety, not to mention you'll also save on gas. WikiHow also shows you how to properly check your tire pressure.

3. Schedule an Annual Tune-up: Optimize your car's performance by maintaining a well-tuned engine. It will delivers the best balance of power and fuel economy while reducing emissions.

4. Check Alignment: Check tire alignment at least once a year, preferably in the spring. Potholes, winter bumps-and-grinds over snow piles and other road conditions, as well as normal wear, take a toll on your car's steering and suspension. A wheel alignment will reduce tire wear, improve fuel economy and handling, and increase your safety and driving enjoyment.

5. Inspect Lights and Windshield Wipers: Lights and wipers play a major role in safe driving and require periodic replacement. Replace windshield wipers at least once a year to improve visibility and save wear on your windows.

6. Winterize: Prepare your car for freezing temperatures by checking the antifreeze level, replacing window-washer fluid with a winter mix, and checking tires for proper inflation and wear. This is the time bald tires should be replaced; not after you skid into a tree. Have the battery serviced (clean the battery terminal ends and add water) and load-tested to check its ability to hold a charge. If the battery is more than 4-1/2 years old, replace it.

7. Find a Good Mechanic: The good gentlemen of NPR Radio's Car Talk host a searchable site listing repair shops by zip code. Each shop is rated via an online survey and includes reviewer comments, to help you find an honest and cost-efficient mechanic. Car Talk also has a do-it-yourself matrix, recommending which repairs you can handle yourself and which ones truly require a mechanic.