Preventative Maintenance More Important as Vehicles Age

Aug. 28, 2019

Owners who are diligent about things like oil changes will get the most out of their rides.

Aug. 28, 2019—As cars get older, they need more service and repair. The Car Care Council recommends that motorists who own an older car, truck or SUV become more diligent about preventative maintenance, according to a press release.

"With the average vehicle age exceeding 11.5 years, the chance of a breakdown or service issue on an older vehicle is much greater," said Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council. "The Car Care Council urges drivers of older vehicles to implement a preventative maintenance plan for their vehicle to minimize the chances of a roadside breakdown and to also help their vehicle run more efficiently and economically."

According to Experian Automotive, the average age of passenger vehicles on the road is rising, up from 11.29 years in the first quarter of 2015 to 11.61 years in 2019. The most common maintenance procedures to keep a car operating safely and reliably, while maintaining its long-term value, involve checking the oil, filters and fluids, the belts and hoses, brakes, tires and air conditioning. An annual tune-up and wheel alignment are also recommended.

The Car Care Council offers a free custom service schedule and email reminder service. This simple-to-use online resource can be personalized to help busy car owners prioritize auto care while making it more convenient and economical.

Another analyst, IHS Markit, estimated a slightly older average U.S. vehicle age at 11.8. Montana has the oldest average light vehicles in the country at 16.6 years, while Vermont has the youngest average vehicle at 9.9 years, according to IHS.