Auto Trader California 
New cars and new trucks sure are pretty to look at, however they may not always be a wise investment. This is especially true if the reasons for buying a new vehicle are emotional rather than practical. Once you factor in the steep cost of depreciation and the expense of taxes, insurance, and other fees, it’s easy to why used vehicles are a more sound and stable long term investment.
Many consumers still buy into ? pun intended ? the belief that new cars are worth the expense because of their reliability and integrity.The thought is that new cars will require far less maintenance and car repairs than used ones. This is only partially true, especially when you consider the reliability of manufacturer certified used vehicles, which must undergo and pass rigorous performance and safety inspections before being considered fit to sell.
You can the most use of used vehicles by maintaining them regularly, including seasonal maintenance in climates that experience winter. In fact, it’s become increasing common for used cars to continue running well over 100,000 miles with regular maintenance and care! Simply put, if you take care or your used car it will take care of you! Learn how to get the most value out your used vehicle with these simple maintenance tips.
Make sure your tires are rotated, balanced, and aligned
It should go without saying; tires play an essential role in the overall performance of a vehicle, whether it’s new or used. Be sure to read your used vehicle’s operation manual and follow its guidelines for tire type and air pressure. This simple step can make a major difference in how your vehicle handles and how much gas it uses. Tires that are properly and regularly aligned, balanced, rotated, and replaced as necessary ensure keep used vehicles running at peak performance. In addition, tires are essential to the overall safety of both new and used vehicles.
Check your oil and change it on a regular basis
Without clean oil, both new and used vehicles will struggle to operate. Too little oil or oil that is dirty can lead to a number of different issues, some of which may not be immediately noticeable but will require major repair down the road. It’s important to refer to your vehicle’s operation manual and stick to the manufacturer’s guidelines for how frequent your oil should be changed. As a very general rule of thumb a vehicle’s oil should be changed every 3,000 miles, but this can vary greatly depending on a number of different factors. It’s also a good idea to learn how to check the color and level of your vehicle’s oil, which is simpler than you may think.
Keep the spark alive
Your vehicle’s engine will have trouble operating efficiently if your spark plugs are covered in build up or worn out ? a common problem in used vehicles that are not manufacturer certified. Dirty or worn out spark plugs will not cause your vehicle to use more gas than normal needs (which in and of itself will cost you a lot of money) but they can also lead to a total and complete breakdown. Again, it’s important to refer to your vehicle’s owner manual for recommendation as to how often your spark plugs should be changed. When it doubt, schedule an appointment with your local auto repair shop.