PHOENIX -- For many of us, our cars are our babies. And with money tight, we want our cars to last.
So, there are some simple things you can do to keep your car longer.
Ed Witt has worked on cars for decades. He noticed that more drivers are holding on to the wheel.
To keep your car running longer, Witt has some advice --
First, you want to look under the hood. Look for the serpentine belt which is a small part that can bring big trouble.
"If this belt breaks your engine will overheat and cause catastrophic repair, major engine failure," said Witt.
So keep it crack free. It's a $30 to $50 investment.
Also you may want to "change" the way you "change" your oil.
Witt recommends synthetic. Synthetic oil will cost you about $10 more when you get your oil changed.
But, he said it will prolong the life of the car, especially with our weather.
"The oil is crude oil, but it's the additives that lets it flow through all temperature ranges," Witt said.
And if your car was built after 2002, don't buy into the hype!
Witt said newer cars can go 6,000 miles without an oil change.
That's because they're running cleaner.
Witt also recommends changing your air filter consistently, checking your battery terminals for corrosion and seeing a certified technician.
The best way to keep your car running is to take out your owner's manual.
Most of us don't read it, but it offers guidelines and timelines to service your vehicle.
