High Mileage Car Maintenance Hacks
Keeping a high-mileage car in great shape isn’t as hard as it sounds. Whether it’s a trusted hatchback or a well-loved vehicle with over 100,000 miles, the right care makes all the difference.
With regular maintenance, you can extend your car’s life, avoid costly repairs, and enjoy smoother, safer driving for years to come!
Here are some practical high mileage maintenance hacks - and how MotorEasy can help you save money while keeping your car reliable. See our Warranty plans for older cars here.
What Is Considered a High-Mileage Car in the UK?
In the UK, a high-mileage car usually means anything with 75,000- 100,000+ miles on the clock - but that number alone doesn’t spell trouble.
The idea that high mileage cars aren’t reliable is outdated; with regular servicing and proper care, many easily surpass 150,000 miles without major issues.
A solid service history matters far more than the numbers on the dash. While high mileage can impact value and insurance, consistent upkeep shows it’s simply a sign of a well-used car with plenty of life left to give.
Why Proper Maintenance Matters for High-Mileage Cars
Skipping maintenance is the quickest way to invite breakdowns and costly repairs. Looking after a high mileage car means paying extra attention to parts that wear most- fluids, filters, and vital mechanical systems.
Staying on top of servicing boosts reliability, fuel efficiency and resale value, helping prolong the life of your car. Preventing problems is always cheaper than fixing them later- and a MotorEasy car warranty adds that extra peace of mind, covering the cost of unexpected repair bills.
We offer plans covering cars up to 120,000 miles, so your vehicle is protected long after the manufacturer’s warranty ends!
See our extended warranty plans
Essential Service & Fluid Checks
As mileage climbs, regular servicing is essential. Focus on these key checks to keep things running smoothly:
- Oil changes: Use high-mileage or synthetic oil, change every 6,000-8,000 miles.
- Transmission fluid: Replace every 30,000–60,000 miles to prevent gear damage.
- Coolant: Flush every 2–3 years to avoid overheating.
- Brake & steering fluid: Change as recommended - both absorb moisture over time.
- Filters: Replace oil, air, and fuel filters regularly.
These simple habits prevent many issues that give high-mileage cars a bad name. Book a Service or MOT with MotorEasy to keep your car in check.
Tyres, Brakes & Suspension Care
Your tyres, brakes and suspension take the most stress as mileage rises.
- Tyres: Check tread (min. 1.6mm) and look for cracks or bulges. Rotate every 10,000 miles for even wear.
- Brakes: Inspect pads, discs, and fluid - squeaks or grinding mean it’s time for attention.
- Suspension: Worn shocks, struts, or bushings affect comfort and control; check them at each service or MOT.
MotorEasy’s MOT and Servicing packages cover all these checks- keeping you safe and saving you money on future repairs.
Engine & Mechanical Hacks
A little under-bonnet care goes a long way:
- Timing belt or chain: Check when it was last replaced - missing this can cause serious engine damage.
- Spark plugs & ignition: Replace on schedule to keep starts smooth and fuel use efficient.
- Battery: Clean terminals, watch for corrosion, and replace if voltage is low.
- Leaks & smells: Check weekly for oil or fuel leaks - or unusual odours - to catch issues early.
A few minutes of DIY inspection can prevent major faults and save hundreds in repairs.
Warranties & Protection for High-Mileage Cars
Even well-maintained cars experience wear over time, which is why an extended warranty can be invaluable. A high mileage warranty helps cover costly mechanical and electrical repairs, protecting you from unexpected bills.
MotorEasy’s high mileage car warranties are designed specifically for older vehicles - offering flexible cover for cars with 60,000 miles or more. So, if you’re wondering “should I buy a high mileage car?”, the answer is yes. With the right care and a MotorEasy warranty, your car can stay protected and road-ready for many years to come.
Your car’s looked after you for years- now it’s time to give it the care it deserves. Explore our high milage warranty plans today.
FAQs About High-Mileage Cars
What is considered high mileage for a car in the UK?
- Anything over 75,000+, but how the vehicle has been maintained can be more important than overall mileage.
Why is high mileage bad for cars?
- It isn’t necessarily, wear only becomes a problem when regular maintenance is neglected.
After how many miles should I service my car?
- For our warranties we always advise people to follow their manufacturer service schedule. It’s always best to check what is advised for your car, but for most vehicles a service every 10-12,000 miles or every year is recommended, whichever comes first.
Should I buy a high mileage car?
- Buying a high mileage car can be a great choice, especially if it’s been well-maintained, has a full-service history and passes an inspection. A MotorEasy warranty can also help provide peace of mind that you are covered for unexpected mechanical or electrical failures.
Can I get a warranty for a high mileage car?
- Absolutely. MotorEasy offers warranties for vehicles up to 12 years old and up to 12,000 miles.
