Today, motorists are choosing to keep their vehicle longer. The new average age of all cars on the road is more than 11 years, according to Polk research. Improvements in vehicle reliability and quality, as well as advancements in automaker technology have led the way as to why many motorists are hanging on to their vehicle longer, rather than buy a new one.

Keeping your vehicle longer on the road means that more miles are being tacked on to it. To make your vehicle last longer as it reaches that 6-figure milestone and beyond, here are some things you can do, from start to finish:

 

Purchase reliable model that fits your lifestyle: First thing’s first, when choosing a new vehicle, do some research and buy one that has a safe and reliable track record. Or if you’re buying used, make sure you get a pre-purchase inspection from a local Mercedes-Benz repair specialist. Also consider if the vehicle will fit your lifestyle. After all, you’re in it for the long-haul if you are to reach that 100,000+ mark.

Follow maintenance schedule: The key ingredient to protecting your vehicle’s longevity is to follow a regular, routine maintenance schedule that is specific to your vehicle’s make and model. From minor services like oil changes and tire rotations, to more major services like belt replacement, and everything in between! Have your independent Mercedes-Benz repair technician take a look under the hood and come up with a plan of what to do now and what can hold off until later, before long-term damage occurs.

Find a trustworthy independent mechanic: Finding a specialized, independent Mercedes-Benz mechanic that you like can help save you money while making sure all the necessary repairs are being performed, and not ripping you off with things that do not need to be fixed right away.

Avoid cheap parts: Simply put, don’t buy cheap it you want it to last! The best parts are ones that are made to meet your vehicle’s manufacturer’s specifications. Buying cheap could end up damaging your vehicle and causing expensive repairs down the road, so it is better to be safe than sorry with more of a name-brand part than a no-name one.

Clean it: Tidy up the exterior of your vehicle to remove any dirt, grime and buildup with regular washes and waxes. This will help protect the finish of your vehicle and prevent rust. It’s also a good idea to keep the inside neat, by vacuuming the carpets and wiping down the dash.