Take Steps Now to Help Your Car Reach 200K Miles

Despite an improving economy, many drivers are still holding on to their cars as long as possible to ensure they get the most out of their investment. It is certainly a wise decision, but sometimes motorists may be unsure about how to go about doing it. According to CarJunky.com, there are a number of day-to-day things  drivers can do to help their cars stay on the road.

Storage can play a large role in how long your car lasts. Keeping your in a garage is must, but sometimes motorists use their garage as a place to keep other household items and leave their ride out in the elements. Those without a garage should invest in a car cover and check for bugs or other pests that can get under the tarp.

How you drive your car can also play a big role in how many miles you can get out of it. According to the website, regularly accelerating and cornering too quickly can put unnecessary strain on your vehicle.

Perhaps most importantly, you cannot ignore regular maintenance. Following the schedule outlined in the owner's manual is crucial, and you should be sure to stay on top of components such as brake pads and filters.

"Giving the car an occasional wash and wax is nice but really not as important as regular maintenance," Tom Taylor, engineer and vice president of RockAuto.com, told the website. "Driving and maintaining your car as if it needs to last for at least 200,000 miles or 20 years is a smart way to preserve the value of an expensive asset."

New Jersey State Auto Auction's Total Car Care center is a great resource for drivers looking to extend the life of their car. Located in Jersey City, the center is open to the public and offers everything from repairs to regular upkeep.