Automotive

Best Practices for Extending the Life of Your SUV

SUVs are sturdy vehicles made to handle tough driving conditions and heavy hauling duties. But even these brawny rigs need some extra TLC to keep them running smoothly for maximum longevity. With the right preventative care and maintenance habits, you can get hundreds of thousands of miles out of your trusty SUV. To that end, what follows are a few recommended best practices.

Under the Hood

Just like any vehicle, it is crucial to stay on top of basic engine maintenance for your SUV. Check fluid levels monthly and top off anything low. Change the oil and filter every 5,000 miles or sooner if used for towing/hauling. Replace air filters, spark plugs, and belts according to the service schedule, too. Using quality lubricants pays off as well.

Battery Maintenance

The battery is a common failure point in SUVs because of their larger electrical demands. Give your battery some love by cleaning the cable connections periodically to prevent corrosion buildup. The experts at Clore Automotive say that a trickle battery charger for SUV use is a wise investment to keep it charged and maintained during extended periods of storage between trips.

Jump Start Preparedness

It is wise to always keep a portable jump starter in your SUV. Their larger engines and more power-hungry electrical systems make SUVs more susceptible to battery drainage and no-start situations. A battery charger provides an emergency jump when your main battery goes dead with no need for another vehicle to be around. Having reliable portable jump-starting power gives you a backup plan.

Brake Inspections

With their heavier weights and frequent hauling/towing applications, SUV brake systems experience more strain. Do regular brake inspections; replacing pads/shoes when they get low prevents dangerous situations and rotor damage from developing. Check brake fluid levels and bleed the system annually to remove moisture buildup.

4×4 System Care

If you have a 4-wheel drive SUV with transfer cases and locking hubs, don’t overlook maintenance of these specialized components. Service the differential fluids regularly as per your manual and engage the lockers periodically to keep parts regreased and operating smoothly. Off-road driving increases wear so inspect for leaks or damage after trips.

Undercarriage Protection

SUVs sit higher off the ground, so their exposed undercarriages take more abuse from debris and rough terrain. Apply a rubberized undercoating annually in winter climates to protect against corrosion from road salt exposure. In summer, look for damage from trail obstacles and replace components like skid plates as needed.

Suspension System

With lots of weight riding on their heavy-duty suspension setups, bushings, ball joints, shocks, and struts are all areas that may need to be rebuilt or replaced over time on SUVs. Inspect for worn components and clunking sounds that indicate an issue. Do not put off suspension work or handling and control can suffer rapidly.

Cooling System

Thanks to their larger engines and hard-working nature, SUVs put extra demand on their cooling systems. Ensure the radiator and coolant hoses are free of buildup or deterioration. Flush and replace the coolant as per the recommended interval before it gets acidic. An efficient cooling system is key for avoiding overheating issues.

Cargo Loading

Whether hauling passengers, towing a trailer, or moving heavy cargo, be mindful of not overloading your SUV beyond its weight capacities. Exceeding weight limits can cause drastically increased tire wear, brake system strain, and stress on chassis components.

Conclusion

With their beefy construction and higher ground clearances, it is easy to treat SUVs like they’re indestructible. But plenty of specialized maintenance needs require proactive care. Take the time to inspect all areas regularly and stay ahead of any emerging issues.

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