Save $31,000 and maintain your car

$31,000 bucks!! That’s the amount you save by keeping your car for fifteen years. That’s according to Consumer Reports Magazine. That is compared to the amount of buying the same model every fiver years.

The magazine’s annual survey found 6,769 readers had used more than 200,000 miles on their cars. Their cars included a 1990 Lexus LS400 with 332,000 miles and 488,000 miles for a 1994 Ford Ranger pick-up.

The magazine estimated it would cost $20,500 more if you buy a new Honda Civic EX every five years for 15 years than having to maintain one car for the same period.

The magazine added that you would also have accumulated $10,300 in interest.

Process in having a good car

A car has to be well maintained in order to make 200,000 miles. Tips are recommended to see to it that your car is in good condition. First is read the guide in your owner’s manual and regularly do repairs. Use only the right kinds of fluids like oil and transmission fluids.

Regularly check under the hood, listen to strange sounds, smell odd odors and get a vehicle service manual. Always clean your car carefully inside and outs. This can prevent rust and help the car’s appearance.

Buy a safe and reliable automobile. Buying a car with the latest safety equipment makes it more likely you'll feel as safe in your aging car as a newer model.

The magazine recommends several cars that have the best shot at reaching the 200,000 mile mark and a few aren't likely to make it.

All the cars in the magazine's "Good bets" list are manufactured by Honda and Toyota. The "Bad bets" are a mixture of European models and two Nissans.