I have a 2003 Nissan Altima with 150,000 miles in it. I change the oil every 3K miles and even though I spent $2K last year fixing the A/C, it runs just fine. However, I want to keep it unitl it falls...
If you have the 2.3L engine, the best thing you can do is change the oil then change the oil. When you are done changing the oil, change it again. If you keep your engine oil clean, that engine is pretty much bullet-proof. I have 220,000 on mine.
The only other thing for the engine is oil leaks. Take care of them right away. They ar not only bad for the engine itself. Oil leaks will destroy sensors and wiring harnesses. Petroleum oils will also damage rubber parts like hoses and bushings. Oil leaks should not be tolerated at all.
Yes, your car requires tune-ups. I usually recommend waiting until the Check Engine Light comes on. With the platinum spark plugs, it is usually not necessary to change them for 80.000 miles or so. The Check Engine light will come on and tell you if the spark plugs start misfiring - that is when you MUST change them to prevent other damage to the vehicle.
The fuel filter in your vehicle is serviced only by replacing the fuel pump assembly in the fuel tank. Trust me, it will let you know when it is time. You can go ahead and do this according to mileage if you like, but mine has never been replaced at 220,00 miles. I have changed some at 100,000 miles though.
At your current mileage, I personally recommend a cooling system overhaul. This consists of replacing the water pump and ALL coolant hoses. I would replace heater hoses, by-pass hoses, radiator hoses...EVERYTHING. Also flush the radiator and heater core and replace the thermostat. This can go a long way in preventing severe engine damage due to overheating.
If you have not changed your transmission fluid and filter, then I would recommend doing so.
Then. you just have to take care of problems as they occur. You will most likely lose a wheel bearing, a fuel pump, a CV axle shaft, but this is just normal wear and tear. A thorough inspection every 6 months or so can go a long way in preventing small problems from becoming big problems. I personally check mine over pretty good at every oil change. (3000 miles)
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