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In order to maximize their lifespan, it's important to keep used cars in good condition. This notion actually applies to both new and used cars, but it is especially important to maintain cars that already have some mileage built up on the odometer. Regularly scheduled maintenance, such as oil changes and flushing the coolant system, is key to keeping your used cars in great working shape, but there are certain practical habits you can learn that will extend your car's driving life. Driving more carefully is probably the biggest thing you can do to help your car. Being careful behind the wheel is not just about looking out for pedestrians before proceeding. It's little behaviors such as accelerating slowly as you begin to drive- most engine wear-and-tear occurs during the first 10 to 20 minutes of driving. It is also important not to rev your car's engine during start-up. This tip is doubly important when it's cold outside. Observing the speed limit and avoiding potholes, running over curbs, and burning rubber can also help save your tires. Buying gas for your car is a good thing right? Of course, but only when you purchase it at reputable gas stations. Stations that don't use pump filters make their customers more vulnerable to purchasing dirty gasoline. Other stations may not use the correct mixture of alcohol and fuel, and can even water their gasoline down. If you're in an area you're not familiar with, or you're out in the middle of nowhere at an older gas station, ask the attendant if their gas is filtered at the pump. You can also ask whether they change their pump filters regularly. If the gas station staff doesn't know, it might be in your best interest to find another station to fill up at. It is also a good idea not to fill up when you see a fuel tanker filling a station's stores of gasoline, as this can stir up sediment. Sediment and other particles can clog your car's fuel filters and injectors. Here's something you may not have known: heavy key chains can hurt your car's ignition. The weight of a heavy key chain can wear out the tumblers in your ignition. When combined with the swinging motion the chain makes while you drive, it can eventually cause your ignition to fail. When you have a hard time turning your key in the ignition, or it sticks when you try to turn it on, it is a sign that your ignition doesn't have much life left. Make it a point to purchase a small, minimalistic key chain, or a chain that will allow you to easily remove or separate your ignition key from other household keys. These tips may seem silly initially, but they are actually the best way to make sure your car lasts as long as possible. Practicing these safe-driving habits can make a monumental difference in keeping your used cars in great driving condition, and will help maximize your investment in the long run. For used cars in Metairie visit the team at Ray Brandt Toyota. Learn more at http://raybrandttoyota.com.
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