Growing Old Together (Maintaining an Older Vehicle)Posted July 14, 2024 6:43 AMMore and more of us are hanging on to our vehicles longer. A company by the name of HIS Markit recently released a report that shows the average age of light vehicles in the U.S. is now 11.8 years. Light vehicles are cars, SUVs (sport utility vehicles) and CUVs (compact utility vehicles). In Canada, the average life expectancy of a vehicle there is around 13 years, and in the U.S., it's around 15. Vehicles are lasting longer these days, and there are several reasons for that. One expert cites better technology and overall quality improvements. While in past years, vehicles were made mainly of heavier steel components, more modern vehicles contain lighter magnesium and aluminum alloys, high-strength steel, polymers and carbon fiber. They last longer and reduce the overall vehicle weight, and that can contribute to better fuel economy. Modern internal combustion engine designs have been improved, and since they use more computers, they are more efficient with better performance. Those factors also contribute to a longer-lasting powertrain. In fact, it's not unusual to see a powertrain easily last 150,000 miles/250,000 kilometers or more with no major failures. Drivers are also taking their vehicles in more regularly for periodic maintenance. Choosing one service facility for all your maintenance can contribute to your vehicle's longevity, too, since technicians know your vehicle's repair and service history. If you bought your vehicle taking out a 5-year loan and you keep it 11 years, you've managed 6 of those years without a payment, always a nice feeling. Plus, a bonus is that you get very familiar with every aspect of that vehicle's sounds, smells, handling, stopping characteristics, visibility and limitations. And the more familiar you are with your vehicle, the more confident you can be as a driver. Garrigan's Auto Repair Shop | ||
SearchArchiveMarch 2023 (17)April 2023 (5) May 2023 (4) June 2023 (4) July 2023 (5) August 2023 (4) September 2023 (4) October 2023 (5) November 2023 (4) December 2023 (5) January 2024 (5) February 2024 (4) March 2024 (5) April 2024 (4) May 2024 (4) June 2024 (5) July 2024 (4) August 2024 (4) September 2024 (5) October 2024 (4) November 2024 (4) December 2024 (5) January 2025 (4) February 2025 (4) March 2025 (5) April 2025 (4) May 2025 (4) June 2025 (5) | CategoriesTires and Wheels (2)Fuel System (3)Cooling System (4)Fluids (4)What Customers Should Know (22)TPMS (2)Parts (1)Transmission (5)Diesel Maintenance (1)Drive Train (2)Alignment (2)Tire Rotation and Balancing (2)Windshield Wipers (2)Tires (3)Air Conditioning (4)Headlamps (1)Brakes (9)Oil Change (4)Battery (2)Automotive News (1)Serpentine Belt (1)Wheel Bearings (1)Fuel Economy (3)Alternator (1)Steering (2)Inspection (1)PCV Valve (1)Keys to a long lasting vehicle (1)Maintenance (4)Spark Plugs (2)Brake Service (3)Older Vehicles (1)Service Standards (1)Auto Safety (1)Shocks & Struts (1)Fuel Saving Tip: Slow Down (1)Trip Inspection (1)Safe Driving (1)Engine Air Filter (1)Exhaust (2) |

WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY
My car starting juddering while shifting gears and I knew the transmission was about to go. Called around to see if I could get it into a shop, quick! with no luck. Called Garrigan's and Taylor was able to squeeze me in! Taylor was extremely helpful and didn't sugar coat anything! He sent me a full diagnostic report and all my options. After some consideration, I'll be purchasing a new vehicle. Taylor was ready to help with that too! With advice and an initial inspection report! I highly recommend Garrigan's on Speedway!! They are fast, friendly, willing and able to help with anything your vehicle needs! Thank you Taylor! Robyn, 06/18/2025