4 Ways To Keep Your Car Running Smoothly in 2026
The best money you can spend to keep your car running a long time down the road is on preventative measures. Maintaining your car can extend its life and help prevent major repairs that will cost you a fortune in the shop.
With that in mind, here are four tips and tricks from an expert on how to keep your car in good running condition in 2026. Don't get stuck with some of the most expensive car repairs.
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1. Use Synthetic Motor Oil
It's worth it to spend a little more money to get an oil change with synthetic oil, according to Mike Nocera, owner of Long Island Mobile Mechanic in Huntington, New York.
"Synthetic oil will break down differently than regular oil," he said. "It also burns at higher temperatures. It's better than regular oil because it gets into certain spots that regular oil can't get into. For newer cars, you're supposed to only use synthetic."
While many modern vehicles are designed to run on synthetic oil, one should always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
2. Top Off Your Fluids
Keeping your fluids filled up can help keep your car running well and extend its life, said Nocera. You'll want to check that you have enough motor oil, and top it off if it needs to be filled (or get an oil change).
While you're under the hood, check the radiator fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid and brake fluid. Always check your car's manual to local the compartments for these fluids, the types to fill it with, how much you need and how often. If you're a "hands-off" driver when it comes to filling car fluids, you could ask the mechanic to check the fluids and fill everything up at your next oil change.
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3. Park in a Garage
If you're able to pull your car into your home garage or store it in an enclosed space, that can help add years to your car. Why? Rust, said Nocera. It can destroy cars exposed to moisture from rain and humidity -- and snow and salt on the road. Rust can damage the structure of the vehicle, damage the frame and eat away at the car. If you notice rust on your car, address these issues right away at your mechanic's repair shop.
4. Check the Air Filter
See if your car's air filter needs to be replaced, suggested Nocera. Doing so can help keep the spark plugs running optimally and make sure your car is getting the right amount of air flowing into the engine.
Most replacement air filters cost between $20 and $75. Make sure you're getting the one that's recommended for your make and model car, and replace it based on your vehicle’s maintenance schedule or when visibly dirty (often around 15,000 miles depending on driving conditions).
Caitlyn Moorhead contributed to the reporting for this article.
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This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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