How to Make Your Car Last 300,000 KM
Smart habits from someone who wants to keep their car running forever.
1. Stick to a Maintenance Schedule
Why this matters:
Every car has a list of maintenance tasks – these include oil changes, fluid flushes, filter replacements, tire rotations, and more. Skipping these tasks or delaying them for too long can lead to serious issues down the road.
How to avoid it:
Check your owner’s manual or ask a shop like Harper’s Tire to help you build a simple maintenance checklist based on your mileage. Set reminders on your phone or write them on a sticky note in your glove box. Tip: Staying consistent with small services is a lot cheaper than replacing a transmission or engine.
2. Warm Up Your Engine (Especially During The Winter)
Why this matters:
When it’s freezing outside, your engine oil is thick and moves slowly. If you drive right away it puts stress on the engine and can lead to long-term wear.
How to avoid it:
Start your car and let it sit for about a minute before driving it. You don’t need to wait for 10 minutes but giving it a bit of time helps everything start circulating properly – especially during Calgary winters. Tip: Buying a remote car starter can make this a lot easier and more comfortable for you.
3. Don’t Ignore Weird Sounds or Smells
Why this matters:
If your car is making grinding, squealing, or rattling noises, and there’s burning or odd smells, your car is trying to tell you something is wrong. Catching one of these problems early can save your engine or brakes from completely failing.
How to avoid it:
If something sounds or smells off, have it checked out. A basic 30 point inspection can save you from a $1000+ repair. Tip: Trust your gut. If you think that your car is suddenly driving, sounding or smelling different than usual, you’re probably right.
4. Wash Your Car – Even During the Winter
Why this matters:
The salt, slush and dirt from Calgary’s roads during the wintertime can eat away at your car’s paint and frame, causing rust and long-term damage.
How to avoid it:
Get a car wash once every month in the winter, especially one that sprays underneath your car. In the summer, washing off dust and pollen keeps your paint in good shape as well. Tip: Get a wax seal once or twice a year for extra protection and a nice shine to your car.
5. Drive Smoothly
Why this matters:
Aggressive driving like slamming on the brakes or flooring the gas pedal, taking corners too fast, riding the clutch (if you drive stick) will all wear your car down faster.
How to avoid it:
Pretend like you’re driving one of your friends’ cars, and you want to make sure nothing happens to it. Ease into acceleration, give yourself time to stop, and avoid potholes and rough roads when you can. Tip: Not only will this help your car last longer, but you’ll also use less gas and be less stressful while driving.
Making your car last for 300,000 km isn’t about luck – it’s about your habits. A little care goes a long way, especially if you’re trying to avoid large repair bills. If you’re ever unsure about something, you can always come by Harper’s Tire, and we’ll be happy to give your car a quick check or point you in the right direction.