3 Common Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid with Used Muscle Cars

If you are looking at options for used cars, maintenance will be a different process than with new models. Avoid these maintenance mistakes with used cars.

3.94 million used cars are sold every year in the U.S. But a used car requires different maintenance than a new car you drive straight off the lot.

For starters, that new car has a handy little maintenance guide that tells you exactly what to do and when to do it.

But with a used car, you likely don’t know what maintenance it’s had, or when it was last done. That’s why most new used car owners make these frequent maintenance mistakes. Here’s what you can do to avoid them, and take care of your car.

1. You Think Everything Is Good to Go

When you get a used car, there might be subtle mechanical issues lurking beneath the surface you don’t realize on your test drive. Your car might drive just fine for a while, but something like a broken timing belt can instantly kill it.

So when you get a new used car, take it to a mechanic and ask for a tune-up. Ask them to check for any signs of damage that will need repair sooner or later. Catching them in time can save your car’s life, and dramatically lower your overall car maintenance cost.

2. You Act Like Regular Maintenance Was Just Done

Regular oil changes, checking the tires, and making sure your fluids are all topped off are all part of basic car maintenance. But that doesn’t mean you should go 3,000 miles before you need an oil change.

Until you’ve established a baseline on when the last maintenance was done, do basic maintenance checks before you think you need it.

Change your oil, check your wipers, air filters, brakes, and tire pressure, and make sure all your fluids are topped off. Even if you get the best used cars, make sure you’re vigilant about your vehicle’s maintenance.

3. You Ignore the Tires

Sure, you checked that the tread was good and the walls weren’t building when you bought the car. But are the wheels properly aligned? When was the last time they were rotated?

Your tires are vital to your car’s proper functioning, and you can’t ignore them. Make sure you regularly get your tires rotated and aligned, and check the air pressure every time you pump gas.

Avoid These Maintenance Mistakes With Your Used Car

These are the most common maintenance mistakes people make when they buy a used car. Worst case scenario, you can dramatically damage your car.

Until you establish a baseline of proper car maintenance, you should act as if that maintenance has never been done before. Proper maintenance is vital for keeping your car on the road.

So make sure you perform regular maintenance and get your car to a mechanic when it needs repairs. Doing so can save you hundreds of dollars throughout your car’s life.

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