5 Ways To Extend the Life of Your Jeep

One of the main concerns drivers have when it comes to protecting their vehicle's longevity is the gas mileage. Gas mileage is something that can naturally decline over time, so preserving it is a good way to keep your vehicle in good shape, even as the years go on. There are many ways you can preserve your gas mileage, starting with oil changes. Keeping up with oil changes keeps your engine from working too hard due to excess friction. In addition to maintenance, there are several ways you can protect your gas mileage with just your driving habits. For example, accelerating too quickly as well as speeding in general can both wreak havoc on your gas mileage over time.

Many Jeep drivers love going off the beaten path, and luckily, Jeep vehicles have the tools you need to do so! However, even if you have tough all-terrain tires, it's still important to keep up with general tire maintenance, especially if you spend a lot of time exploring off-road trails and other challenging terrain. Be sure to take it easy while going around tight corners in order to keep the weight of your vehicle dispersed evenly on all four tires. You should also avoid braking too hard whenever possible, as this can cut down on wear and tear on both your tires as well as your brakes. Of course, tire maintenance is also a key aspect of overall tire health. We recommend getting a tire rotation roughly every six months, or every time you get your oil changed!

Taking care of your Jeep battery can go a long way in making sure it lasts. Simple steps like avoiding the use of headlights, the radio, or other electronics when the engine's off, and keeping the surface of the battery clean and dry, help preserve its life. With proper care and yearly checkups, especially before the cold winter months, your Jeep's battery can last four to five years. Over time, all batteries wear down, but things like a faulty alternator, loose connections, or extreme hot and cold temperatures can speed up that process. Staying on top of maintenance and having our service team test or even replace the battery as a precaution can save you from inconvenient breakdowns.

We've already mentioned a few driving habits that can extend the lifetime of your Jeep, but we want to expand on these methods because they're truly simple and accessible! The way you drive has a big impact on how long your vehicle lasts. Smooth driving, including gradual acceleration, steady speeds, and gentle braking, helps reduce wear on the engine, brakes, tires, and suspension, while aggressive habits like speeding or hard braking can shorten their lifespan. Keeping a constant speed, especially on highways, not only improves fuel efficiency but also prevents unnecessary stress on the engine. On the other hand, frequent short trips can be tough on your car since the engine doesn't reach its optimal temperature, leading to higher friction, extra strain on the battery, and added wear on parts like pistons and valves. Combining short errands into longer drives can help keep your engine running more efficiently and extend your vehicle's life.

One of the sure signs of a worn-out vehicle is a harsher feel while driving. Worn shock absorbers can show themselves in several ways, like your vehicle veering on sharp turns, floating through long bends, making clunking noises over bumps, or causing your wheels to shudder when accelerating. You might also notice oil leaks on the shocks or uneven tire wear. Ignoring these signs can be risky, and nearby parts like suspension joints or engine mounts can wear out faster. To avoid these issues, it's important to have your shocks checked regularly, replace them in pairs, and swap out related parts like dust covers. On average, shocks should be replaced every 50,000 miles, though wear can vary depending on type and driving style.

Here at Palmer Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram, we're dedicated to keeping your Jeep running at its best with expert maintenance and service. Whether it's routine oil changes, tire rotations, or more in-depth repairs, our skilled team is ready to help you every step of the way. You can easily schedule a service appointment on our website to fit your busy schedule, or if you're also looking for a new or used Jeep, you can reach out using the form below to learn more about our inventory and get answers to any questions you might have.