Keeping a car running for years requires dedication on the part of a driver. Not only do you need to do your best to avoid accidents or collisions, but you also need to invest in preventative maintenance that ensures every aspect of the vehicle is functioning as intended. 

Some of the most important preventative maintenance includes replenishing a car's fluids, such as the oil, antifreeze and wiper fluids. You should also be examining brake pads to see if they need to be replaced, as well as regularly changing the engine air filter, rotating the tires and upgrading the windshield wipers when they begin to leave streaks. 

"If you're like most Americans, you're busier than ever and you may not think twice about putting off vehicle maintenance," said Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council. "However, neglected auto care almost always means much higher costs down the road in the form of more extensive repairs or lost resale value." 

To prevent this issue, White recommended following a regular maintenance schedule. Employing reminders or updates that let you know when it's time to get a certain aspect of a vehicle checked out may also be a wise decision, as it allows you to 

There are a few options available for those who are concerned about the performance of a vehicle. Some may want to take vehicles in for preventative maintenance, and garages like the Total Car Care Center at NJ State Auto Auction offer an array of services that can improve the functionality of a vehicle. The auction lot also has plenty of CARFAX-certified used cars for sale, so those drivers who want to invest in a new ride can check out a few of the available models.