HOW TO MAKE YOUR CAR LAST A LIFETIME with AMD @TheCarCareNut // FULL DETAILS TO MAINTAIN YOUR CAR

About this video

• Video Title: HOW TO MAKE YOUR CAR LAST A LIFETIME with AMD @TheCarCareNut // FULL DETAILS TO MAINTAIN YOUR CAR
• Channel: AutomotivePress
• Speakers: Ahmed, [Host's Name - not explicitly stated, but implied to be the interviewer]
• Duration: 00:44:35

Overview

This video provides comprehensive advice on maintaining a car to ensure its longevity, potentially for a lifetime. The host and mechanic Ahmed discuss various aspects of car care, including fluid changes, brake maintenance, tire care, fuel selection, winter storage, and proper part selection, emphasizing preventative maintenance and avoiding common pitfalls.

Key takeaways

• Engine Oil Changes: The owner's manual intervals (12,000-15,000 miles) are often too long. For non-turbo, non-hybrid cars, changing oil every 5,000 miles or 6 months is recommended. For turbocharged engines, this should be reduced to 3,000 miles or 3 months due to increased heat and stress.
• Transmission Fluid: Avoid "lifetime" fluid claims. For Toyota/Lexus, change transmission fluid around 60,000 miles or 6 years. Avoid flushing and only change if the car has under 100,000 miles and has never had it done, as it can cause issues.
• Coolant: Long-life coolants can become acidic over time and damage gaskets. For Toyota, changing coolant every 50,000 miles or 5 years is advised. Do not mix red and pink coolants.
• Brake Maintenance: Conduct annual brake inspections. Brake pads wear faster as they get thinner; replace them around 3mm remaining. Stick to OEM brake pads for better performance and less noise, especially for non-performance vehicles.
• OEM Parts: Prioritize Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts for better quality and longevity, though some aftermarket parts like Bosch wiper blades can be exceptions.
• Spark Plugs: For Toyota, stick to manufacturer-recommended intervals (e.g., 120,000 miles for old iridium plugs, 60,000 for direct injection, 40,000 for turbo) and use OEM plugs.
• Tire Replacement: Replace tires based on age (ideally 6-7 years, maximum 10) and tread depth. Rubber degrades over time, becoming dangerous even with good tread.
• Fuel Type: Use the recommended octane fuel. Using regular in a premium-required car can cause engine knock and damage. Using premium in a regular-required car is a waste of money. Opt for "Top Tier" gasoline for better cleaning additives.
• Winter Storage: For stored vehicles, use a battery maintainer and drive the car for at least 15-20 minutes monthly if possible. Tires can develop flat spots; ideally, remove them or use temporary storage wheels. Undercoating is recommended for cars in salty areas.
• Car Care Philosophy: Keep a maintenance journal (or use an app) to track services. Avoid unnecessary maintenance ("if it ain't broke, don't fix it") as disturbing older components can sometimes cause problems. Protect the car's paint from contaminants like bird droppings and tree sap.