How to help your car last longer

It takes a lot of resources to manufacture a car, and then to dispose of the car at the end of its life.  Maintaining  your car so you can use it longer is a good way to increase your sustainability.  Proper maintenance can also help your car get better gas mileage.  Here are some tips:

• Make sure your tires are inflated to the proper pressure for your car and tire type.  This will help your gas mileage and minimize wear on your tires.
• Get your wheel alignment checked once a year.  Poorly aligned wheels can lead to extra wear on the tires and possibly lower gas mileage. 
• Cars have outside drains, probably covered by rubber strips, that channel water away.  If the drains are plugged, pooled water can cause rust, and leaks can lead to mold inside your car.  Look for sunroof drains, trunk, hatch, and door drains.  Check and clean them periodically. 
•  Check and change fluids such as oil, transmission fluid, and coolant per the manufacturer’s recommendations.  Also change air filters for the engine and the passenger spaces, and more often if you drive on dusty roads frequently. 
• If you live in a place where salt on the roads or in the air is a problem, wash your car, including the undercarriage, a little more often to reduce corrosion. 
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for type of gasoline and oil, and for other service recommendations.