[h=2]Drive it like you own it, and drive it often....or at least start it up often[/h] Old Mercedes like this 230 SL have a reputation for reliability. But in order to keep them running right, they need to be driven. | Mercedes-Benz



Say you have an older, high-mileage car. Chances are it’s going to have its quirks, but believe it or not, the difference between an aging runner and a basket case usually comes down to how often it’s driven.

A warm car is a happy car, and while essential fluids like oil, antifreeze, and brake fluid keep vital metal parts lubricated, they also keep things like hoses and gaskets from drying out. Park an old car for a while, and chances are you’ll start seeing leaks.

When you can’t even tell what’s leaking from where anymore, it may already be too late. So do your car a favor, and drive it regularly.

You might wash/degrease the engine periodically so you can see fresh leaks.