How to Extend the Life of Your Car in Karachi: The Importance of High-Mileage Oil
One of the best things about modern cars is their incredible longevity. Not too long ago, vehicles—especially older American models—were considered near their end once they hit 75,000 miles. Cars and trucks with over 100,000 miles were often written off and sent to the scrapyard. But today, things have changed. It’s now common for a car to reach 100,000 miles and still be in its prime. Some cars even go on to hit 250,000 or 300,000 miles without experiencing any major issues. I’ve personally owned several cars, including a Cadillac, two Mazdas, and a Saturn, all of which easily surpassed the quarter-million-mile mark. While this is just my experience, it’s a good indication of how much car technology has improved over the years.
The Changing Needs of Older Cars
As cars age, their needs change. Just like when we get older and need to pay more attention to our health with the right food and exercise, older cars also require different maintenance to keep running smoothly. When your car reaches a certain age, it’s time to adjust its “diet,” especially when it comes to the engine oil. One of the best ways to take care of an older car is to switch to high-mileage engine oil.
What Is High-Mileage Oil?
High-mileage engine oil is specially designed for vehicles that have been on the road for a while. It contains a blend of seal conditioners, additives, and detergents, each designed to meet the specific needs of older engines. Seal conditioners help reduce small leaks that develop in older engines by causing the gaskets and seals to swell slightly, improving their ability to seal the engine. Additives offer extra protection to components like cylinder walls and cam lobes, which do a lot of the heavy lifting during engine operation at high speeds. Detergents in the oil help clean out sludge and gunk that may have built up over time.
When Should You Switch to High-Mileage Oil?
When you should start using high-mileage oil depends on how and where you drive your car. For example, highway driving is generally easier on your car’s engine than the constant stop-and-go traffic typical in cities like Karachi. A car that has 150,000 miles of highway driving may still be in great shape, while the same engine that’s mostly been used for city driving may start showing signs of wear at just 80,000 miles.
High-mileage oil is typically recommended once a car reaches 75,000 to 100,000 miles, but your best bet is to consult a trusted mechanic who knows your vehicle. They can advise you on whether high-mileage oil is the right choice for your engine and driving conditions.
What High-Mileage Oil Can’t Do
It’s important to remember that high-mileage oil isn’t a miracle cure. It won’t fix major mechanical issues like worn-out engine rings, burnt valves, blow-by, rod knock, or power loss. It also won’t plug up large oil leaks or stop your car from smoking. Essentially, it’s not a solution for problems that require expensive repairs. However, high-mileage oil is a great form of preventative maintenance. It’s an affordable way to help keep your engine running smoothly and prevent further damage.
Should You Use High-Mileage Oil?
If you own a car with a high mileage that has been well-maintained, using high-mileage oil is a smart choice. Spending a little extra on each oil change can be a lot cheaper—and a lot less stressful—than paying for a new engine, or worse, a whole new car. By using the right oil and performing regular maintenance, you can help extend the life of your car and keep it running smoothly for many more miles to come.
If you’re thinking about upgrading your car or exploring new options in the market, there are some great models out there, such as the Changan Oshan X7 Comfort and Changan Deepal S07. Regular maintenance and choosing the right car for your needs can help ensure your vehicle’s longevity, regardless of whether it’s a brand-new or high-mileage model.
