Used car sales are skyrocketing. According to Automotive News, more than 44 million used cars were sold in 2005, compared to only about 17 million sold in previous years.

Why the surge in used car sales in recent years? There are several reasons, but one of the main reasons is because people are learning how to take care of their used vehicles better.

According to Liz Allison, a spokesperson for the AutoVantage auto group, more people are learning that “most basic car maintenance runs on a cyclical schedule that is universal to many car models.” Without any mechanical knowledge, you can develop a maintenance schedule to keep your car running in tip-top shape.

If you know what needs to be done to your car and when it needs to be done, you can also save money, says AutoVantage Vice President Mike Wain. “Having a basic idea of what standard check-ups should be done, and when, can save you money and prevent major repairs down the road.” In addition to following your vehicle’s manual and following recommendations, AutoVantage suggests the following tips for maintaining your used vehicle:

Once a month, check the tire pressure, fluids and lights. Be sure to know your vehicle’s recommendations to ensure that you have the proper amount.

Change the engine and oil filter about every 3,000-5,000 miles. This is one of the most important components of car maintenance if you plan to enjoy the vehicle for several years.

Check the belts for any wear and tear that could pose a problem if they are not replaced.

Rotate your tires about every 5,000-7,500 miles and change the air filter. Tire rotation keeps your tires wearing evenly and increases their life. Changing the air filter helps to filter the dust and dirt from your engine so it runs more smoothly.

Change the transmission fluid, fuel filter, timing belt and spark plugs abut every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Although doing so costs more than an oil change, the changes are a vital part of proper car maintenance.

While this is not a complete list of ways to keep your car running smoothly, the list indicates some of the more important maintenance checks. As always, refer to your owner’s manual for the ideal maintenance schedule.

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