What are the effects of high mileage on a car?
4 Answers
High mileage can lead to increased fuel consumption in a car. Here is some information about fuel consumption: Introduction: Generally refers to the amount of gasoline consumed per 100 kilometers, which is a theoretical indicator of the vehicle. It has a significant impact on the car. Methods to reduce fuel consumption: The longer the idling time when parked, the greater the fuel consumption, so try to minimize idling time; avoid rapid acceleration, hard pressing of the accelerator, and driving at low engine speeds. Factors affecting fuel consumption: Various working conditions such as acceleration, deceleration, braking, and engine idling, as well as load capacity, temperature, and whether the air conditioning is on, all have an impact.
My old car has already run 200,000 kilometers, just like how elderly people tend to have minor health issues. The most noticeable problems are the louder engine noise and a 20% increase in fuel consumption compared to when it was new. The chassis makes squeaking sounds when going over bumps, and the last shock absorber replacement cost me several thousand yuan. The transmission now hesitates when shifting gears, and the repair shop said the clutch plates need replacing. There are also various aging rubber components - the door seals leak air, making the AC struggle in summer. Used car dealers say vehicles with this mileage depreciate by at least 30%, but with regular maintenance it can still run for several more years. Remember to change all fluids frequently - safety comes first.
As the car ages and the mileage piles up, what hits me hardest is the strain on my wallet. Maintenance intervals have shortened - what used to be an annual checkup now requires biannual inspections. Last time, replacing the timing belt and water pump cost me over 4,000 yuan, and I've already changed the brake discs and pads twice. Fuel consumption keeps creeping up, adding several hundred yuan to my monthly gas expenses. The AC doesn't cool like it used to, and the mechanic says the compressor's efficiency has dropped with age. Electronic components have become temperamental too, with the infotainment screen occasionally going black. Tire wear accelerates, requiring replacement every 40,000 km. High-mileage vehicles face stricter annual inspections, with additional emissions treatment needed if they fail. I've considered trading it in, but the steep depreciation makes me hesitate.
I've driven several high-mileage cars, and the biggest issue is all kinds of strange noises. There's a ticking sound from the engine compartment at idle, which the mechanic said was due to excessive valve clearance. The chassis makes a clunking noise over speed bumps because the rubber bushings are worn out and need replacement. The interior creaks everywhere, especially in hot weather when plastic parts keep rubbing against each other. The brakes feel soft and require early application, while the tires have reduced grip and are prone to skidding in the rain. The battery has a short lifespan—once it failed to start after a supermarket trip. The A/C cools slowly and consumes more fuel, and the radiator is prone to overheating. However, with regular oil and filter changes, the mechanical parts can still hold up.
