How Do I Get My Toyota to 200,000 Miles?

Apr 11, 2016

Toyota Camry

Even with today’s innovative engineering technology, no car is designed to last forever. Still, practicing responsible car ownership and good driving habits can ensure your Toyota reaches 200,000 miles, which is quite a milestone! Here are the ways to get close to, and maybe exceed, the 200,000-mile mark.

Follow Your Toyota’s Recommended Service Schedule

Stick to your car’s factory-recommended maintenance schedule, so that any problems are taken care of become they become major issues. You will need to consult your owner’s manual and warranty information for the specifics, but in general, most models should be getting a basic service and inspection every 5,000 miles. This includes replacing the engine oil and filter, rotating the tires, topping off fluids, and performing a road test. A more thorough service should occur every 15,000 miles, and a major servicing every 30,000 miles.

Motor Oil

Pay Extra for the Good Stuff

It may be tempting to cut corners during preventative maintenance, but that habit isn’t going to get your car anywhere near 200,000 miles. Consider paying extra for high-quality filters and synthetic motor oil when you bring your Toyota in for an oil change. Synthetic oil costs more than conventional petroleum-based motor oil, but it’s designed to extend your engine’s life. Keep in mind, though, that not every synthetic oil is high-quality. Consult with your automotive technician and ask for suggestions.

Keep it Clean

Washing your car regularly can actually prevent body damage, especially during the winter. Road salt used to melt winter snow and ice can eat into your car’s paint job, causing corrosion and rust. It can also damage brake lines, body panels, and your Toyota’s frame. To avoid this, wash your car’s underbody after a major winter storm, and wash it on a regular basis throughout the rest of the year. A good waxing will also help protect it from damage.

2016 Rav4

Go Easy on the Gas Pedal

People who tend to floor it during start-up are doing more damage to their vehicles than they may think. Despite what you may have heard, revving up the engine doesn’t help warm up the car. The engine, oil, and all its moving parts do that within seconds, so it’s important to keep the RPM down to a minimum. After turning the ignition, give the engine 30 seconds to “warm up” on its own before driving off.

Take it Easy on the Road

Driving hard, slamming on the brakes, going full-throttle on the highway, and over-shifting gears can really do a number on your car’s engine. The occasional panic stop won’t hurt anything, but if you have a lead foot and aren’t driving responsibility, you’re wearing your Toyota into the ground faster than you’re making up for lost time. A car is an investment, which is why taking care of it and driving in such a way that prolongs its life will pay off in the long-run.

Being mindful of your car’s needs can go a long way toward ensuring it keeps giving back for 200,000 miles. If you haven’t in a while, schedule your next tune-up today, and get your Toyota the treatment it deserves.