Let’s be real—owning an older car can be a mixed bag. On one hand, it’s reliable and familiar, like an old friend. On the other, it can occasionally throw tantrums like a cranky toddler. But here’s the good news: keeping an older car running smoothly doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With the right care, even a car that’s seen better days can still cruise along without drama.
At our tow truck company, we’ve seen it all—from 30-year-old beaters that start like a dream, to relatively new cars that break down because no one gave them a second thought. So here’s some friendly, experience-backed advice to help you keep your older ride in tip-top shape.
Don’t Skip Oil Changes—Ever
Let’s start with the basics. You’ve heard this a thousand times, and it’s still the golden rule. Older engines have more wear and tear, and they rely heavily on clean, high-quality oil to keep things running smoothly.
Think of oil as your engine’s lifeblood. If it’s dirty or too low, the internal parts start grinding together, causing damage you might not see until it’s too late. Stick to the recommended schedule—usually every 5,000 km or six months—and don’t cheap out on the filter either.
Real-world example:
We recently towed an old Holden Commodore that conked out on the freeway. Turns out, it hadn’t had an oil change in over a year. The engine seized, and that was the end of the road—literally and figuratively.
Keep an Eye (and Ear) on the Basics
Your senses are your best tools. Listen for weird noises—squeaks, rattles, clunks. Look for leaks or smoke. Smell anything odd? Pay attention. These are your car’s way of whispering, “Hey mate, something’s off.”
Older cars talk a lot more than new ones—they just don’t have digital dashboards to do it.
If the brakes start squealing or you feel a vibration in the steering wheel, don’t ignore it. It might be something simple like worn pads or unbalanced tyres, but waiting could turn it into something major.
Replace Fluids Before They Become a Problem
It’s not just about oil. Transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, coolant—all of these age over time and lose effectiveness. They can also attract moisture, which leads to corrosion.
Check your owner’s manual or chat with your mechanic about how often to change each one. A simple flush now can save you thousands down the track.
Pro tip:
If your coolant looks rusty or murky, it’s way overdue. Clean coolant should be bright (usually green, orange, or pink) and clear.
Belts, Hoses, and the Rubber Bits
These are the unsung heroes of your car’s engine bay. In older vehicles, belts and hoses can become brittle and crack, especially in Australia’s fluctuating climate.
Pop the bonnet every now and then and give the belts a gentle tug—if they feel loose, frayed, or make a high-pitched squeal when the engine’s running, it’s time for a replacement. Hoses should feel firm but not rock-hard or mushy. If you see bulging or leaking near the clamps, don’t wait.
Battery Health: It’s Not Just for Winter
Batteries in older cars can sometimes last longer than expected, but they’re also more likely to fail without warning. If your car starts sluggishly or your headlights dim while idling, your battery (or alternator) might be waving a white flag.
Most auto stores will test your battery for free. It takes five minutes and can save you the nightmare of being stranded on a cold morning with a car that just won’t crank.
Quick story:
We once helped a bloke who was stranded at a shopping centre. He swore his battery was “only two years old.” Turns out it had a faulty cell. One quick tow, a new battery later, and he was good as gold.
Regular Tyre Checks Save Fuel and Lives
Tyres are easy to forget, especially if they’re not obviously flat. But under-inflated tyres wear faster, use more fuel, and reduce your braking ability.
Check tyre pressure once a month (yes, really), and don’t forget the spare. Look for uneven tread wear too—it could mean you need an alignment, which affects steering and safety.
Also, tyres have a shelf life. Even if the tread looks okay, rubber degrades over time. If yours are more than 5-6 years old, consider replacing them regardless of mileage.
Stay on Top of Filters and Plugs
Air filters, fuel filters, and spark plugs are the small parts that make a big difference. Dirty filters reduce efficiency and power. Worn spark plugs can lead to misfires or poor fuel economy.
The great thing is, these are cheap fixes. If you’re handy with tools, you can even change them yourself in under an hour. A few dollars and a bit of time now can prevent engine drama later.
Don’t Ignore the “Small Stuff”
Window that rolls down slowly? Weird smell from the AC? Sticky door lock? These may not seem like a big deal, but they often point to developing problems. Plus, little annoyances tend to pile up and make your car feel older than it really is.
Fixing minor issues as they arise not only keeps your car pleasant to drive, but also prevents them from turning into costly repairs. Trust us, a window motor is cheaper now than it will be after it’s jammed open in a storm.
Find a Mechanic Who Knows Older Cars
Not all workshops are created equal. Some mechanics love working on older cars, and others… well, let’s just say they’d rather plug in a computer and call it a day.
Find a local mechanic who understands your vehicle’s quirks. Older cars don’t always show codes when something’s wrong. A mechanic with old-school know-how can often diagnose a problem by feel, sound, or even smell.
Ask around, check reviews, and once you find a good one—stick with them.
A Little Love Goes a Long Way
Let’s be honest: older cars have character. They creak, they rattle, and sometimes they make you question your life choices. But they also have soul—and with regular care, they can last far longer than you might expect.
Whether it’s a ’90s Camry or a well-worn Hilux, treating your vehicle with respect and staying on top of the basics means fewer breakdowns and fewer calls to the tow truck (though we’re always here if you need us!).
It’s a bit like caring for a garden—you don’t need to be a professional landscaper, just someone who checks in regularly, waters the plants, and pulls the weeds before they take over.
And when you do that? Your old car just might surprise you and keep rolling on for years to come.
Let your car know you’re still on its team, and it’ll do its best to return the favour—mile after mile, engine hum after engine hum.
If you are in Dallas, and looking for a nearby towing service, this is the best way to visit us.
Reservoir Towing
58 Anstey Ave, Reservoir VIC 3073
(03) 7046 4990
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