Keeping a car running for years requires dedication on the part of a driver. Not only do you need to do your best to avoid accidents or collisions, but you also need to invest in preventative maintenance that ensures every aspect of the vehicle is functioning as intended. 

Some of the most important preventative maintenance includes replenishing a car's fluids, such as the oil, antifreeze and wiper fluids. You should also be examining brake pads to see if they need to be replaced, as well as regularly changing the engine air filter, rotating the tires and upgrading the windshield wipers when they begin to leave streaks. 

"If you're like most Americans, you're busier than ever and you may not think twice about putting off vehicle maintenance," said Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council. "However, neglected auto care almost always means much higher costs down the road in the form of more extensive repairs or lost resale value." 

To prevent this issue, White recommended following a regular maintenance schedule. Employing reminders or updates that let you know when it's time to get a certain aspect of a vehicle checked out may also be a wise decision, as it allows you to 

There are a few options available for those who are concerned about the performance of a vehicle. Some may want to take vehicles in for preventative maintenance, and garages like the Total Car Care Center at NJ State Auto Auction offer an array of services that can improve the functionality of a vehicle. The auction lot also has plenty of CARFAX-certified used cars for sale, so those drivers who want to invest in a new ride can check out a few of the available models. 

Part of the challenge of shopping for a car is finding a vehicle that you feel comfortable sitting in. This can be particularly difficult for shorter drivers, as many of the cars made in recent years are not designed to accommodate their smaller frame. 

Many newer models are created with a higher beltline, which is the spot where the window glass ends and the metal of the frame begins. As this creeps higher, it becomes more difficult for shorter drivers to have clear, uninterrupted visibility of the road ahead. This forces them to fiddle with the seat in an attempt to see, which in turn can cause them to strain to reach the pedals. 

"This can give the vehicle a more assertive look, but it does little to improve sight lines and can make a vehicle feel claustrophobic for smaller drivers," said Warren Clarke, editor of Edmunds.com. "As a result, short car shoppers making such a big purchase might have trouble getting comfortable with a lot of the new car choices available on the market."

While new cars are not well suited for shorter drivers, there are a number of older models that fit the bill. Choosing the right type goes beyond picking a smaller car, however. Motorists should be on the lookout for narrow seat cushions and a wide front windshield, as these features make it easier for shorter drivers to reach the pedals and view the road. 

Drivers in the market for a used car that is comfortable and practical will want to make the trip to New Jersey State Auto Auction. The lot has hundreds of CARFAX-certified cars, trucks and vans that could be the perfect choice for any prospective buyer. 

Now that October has officially arrived, it's time for drivers to start preparing themselves and their vehicles for cold weather. Much of this regular maintenance will consist of checking the brakes or refilling antifreeze, but another important aspect that needs to be evaluated is the engine. In fact, getting a comprehensive engine check – or even having an engine rebuilt – can provide a big boost to a car's performance. 

There are several ways an engine can be examined and repaired in time for colder temperatures. For example, motorists can take steps to have the cooling system or air filter of an engine replaced or checked out to ensure that the motor is functioning at a high level during the winter. 

The last thing drivers want to is to find themselves stuck on the side of the road in inclement weather, and getting scheduled maintenance on the engine is a great way to avoid this situation. 

"Before severe weather arrives, it is a good idea to make sure your vehicle's engine is running effectively and efficiently," said Rich Simko, chairman of the Engine Rebuilders Council. "If you find that your car or truck is experiencing major engine damage, but is in relatively good shape otherwise, consider repowering it with a rebuilt engine so you know you can count on it when the temperatures drop." 

The Total Car Care Center at New Jersey State Auto Auction is available to help drivers with any maintenance issues that may come up throughout the year. It caters to the public and could be the ideal place to get a vehicle checked out before the cold temperatures set in.