How To Make Your Used Car Last Longer
Purchasing a used car is a cost-effective way to obtain a vehicle, but it can sometimes have issues that make it a less desirable long-term option. However, there are methods you can use to keep your used vehicle running for a long time.
Looking for how to make a used car last longer? This guide from Tennessee Title Loans, Inc. explains methods to maintain the value of your used car and ensure it continues to run properly. We will also review how to obtain a Tennessee online title loan for car repairs to ensure your used car remains operational.
How To Make Your Used Car Last Longer In Tennessee
How long your used car lasts depends on its age and mileage. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, a vehicle built in 2016 or later usually lasts around 12 years. Newer models can have 200,000-300,000 miles before they need to be replaced. If you get a car with over 100,000 miles, it can still last 5-6 years, as long as you maintain the vehicle properly.
Below, you will find five used car maintenance tips to make sure your vehicle lasts a long time:

1. Get Your Used Car Serviced Regularly
Cars need to continually get serviced to stay in tip-top shape. Just like people need to work out and eat right to stay in shape, you must continually get your car serviced and have its older parts replaced to ensure it lasts a long time.
That means you should never delay maintenance tasks like:
- Oil changes
- Battery replacements
- Tire alignments and rotations
- Wiper changes
- Oil and air filter changes
- Regular car washes
That's right; regular car washes are also necessary. They remove road dirt and debris from your car's exterior, helping to slow down or prevent corrosion.
2. Drive It Regularly
The old saying "use it or lose it" is especially true when it comes to used cars. To make the car last longer, you must drive it regularly. Even if the vehicle spends most of its time in your driveway or garage, take it on a long drive at least once a week.
Doing so will allow the fluids to circulate, thereby continuing to lubricate and protect the internal engine and transmission components. Additionally, a long weekly drive will also recharge the battery and make your car last longer.
3. Clean Your Car
Believe it or not, cleanliness is essential for a car to last longer. Earlier, you saw that washing your car regularly helps protect its exterior from damage caused by dirt and corrosion.
Similarly, cleaning your used car's interior is essential to protect the upholstery and other components. You can also go under the hood and make sure all of the parts are clean.
Dust can accumulate on your car’s interior parts, affecting their functionality. For example, they can accumulate in your cabin air filter and compromise its ability to function properly. You may also need to replace the battery if too much dust accumulates, as it can drain the battery and cause corrosion. Clean the exterior and interior of your car to keep it running and avoid the exorbitant costs of replacing parts.
4. Don’t Delay Repairs
Regular maintenance and cleaning will do most of the work to make the car last longer. However, something will eventually need repairs. You must immediately complete those repairs; a faulty part that's not repaired immediately will cause a minor problem to become a major one.
If your car isn’t running properly, have it checked by a mechanic immediately. Remember, minor repairs cost significantly less than major ones. Delaying a repair not only risks shortening the lifespan of your used car, but it'll also cost you much more to fix.
Some signs your car needs parts replaced or repaired include:
- Leaking underneath your car
- Strange engine noises
- Dashboard warning lights
- Trouble steering
- Stalling
- Burning smells
- Poor handling or braking
5. Pay Up For Good Car Parts
When replacements are necessary, never skimp on parts or accessories to ensure your used car lasts. High-quality replacement parts are expensive. However, the money you pay ensures those parts will last much longer than cheaper parts.
In other words, those parts will help your car last much longer because they won't break down anytime soon. That's not the case with cheaper parts that may work initially but require a replacement within a short period.
There may be situations where you cannot afford to replace a part on short notice. In that case, a title loan for vehicle repairs can help.
Why Choose A Tennessee Title Loan for Car Repairs?
One of the reasons your car may not last that long is that you need to pay for car repairs that you cannot afford. When you need fast cash for car repairs in Tennessee, a title loan can help. You can get quick title loans for emergencies within one business day.
As long as you own your car outright, you can get quick approval, with some getting a same-day car title loan in Tennessee. You will just need three required items: a driver’s license, a lien-free vehicle title in your name, and a vehicle for inspection.
Get a title loan for vehicle repairs with our fast, efficient approval process:
- Fill out our online contact form with your name, zip code, contact information, and vehicle details
- Answer a phone call from one of our loan reps to discuss title loan terms
- Bring your required items to the nearest Tennessee store location
- Get your requirements verified and have your vehicle inspected for its value
- If approved, sign the loan agreement to finish the process
- Receive your fast cash later that day or by the next business day
FAQs About Title Loans In Tennessee
How much can you borrow with a title loan in Tennessee?
Fast title loans for emergency costs can provide up to $2,500. However, not everyone will get approved for the maximum amount. How much you can borrow depends on your vehicle’s value. Several factors can influence its value, including age, make, model, condition, mileage, and maintenance history.
Can you get title loans for bad credit?
Bad credit online title loans in Tennessee are available because you use collateral to secure the loan. You won’t need to prove your creditworthiness because the loan is secured. You can get title loans for bad credit or no credit.
Can I get approved for a title loan with a car that needs auto repairs?
You can still get approved for a title loan with a car that needs repairs, as long as the car still works. Damages may lower the value of your title loan, but you should still be approved. You can receive a title loan to help afford auto repairs, which can assist with fixing your vehicle.

Get A Tennessee Car Title Loan For Auto Repairs – Borrow Up To $2,500 Today!
Do you need fast emergency cash for used car repairs? Tennessee Title Loans, Inc. can help with our same-day title loans. You can get approved for a car title loan in Tennessee in just a few easy steps – no credit check required, and you get to keep your car. Start the process today by filling out our online title loan form. Bring your required items to one of our stores to get approved in 30 minutes!
Note: The content provided in this article is only for informational purposes, and you should contact your financial advisor about your specific financial situation.