Whether your car is a few years or a few decades old, there are many things you can proactively do to ensure it stays on the road for many years to come. While you may already be changing its oil and rotating the tires on a regular basis, it is also important that you proactively care for its engine. Even if you don't have a mechanically-inclined bone in your body, you can successfully keep your car mechanically sound by following each of these time-tested tips:

Tip: Keep a Close Watch on Your Vehicle's Antifreeze Level

The antifreeze in your car's cooling system is circulated through its motor when your vehicle is running. When the motor is running, it heats up from burning gas and metallic friction and must be significantly cooled on a continual basis. If you don't keep a close watch on your vehicle's coolant level and run out of antifreeze, then your car's engine will either blow its head gasket or crack its motor. Either situation is very expensive to repair and is 100% avoidable if you monitor the antifreeze level on a regular basis.

Tip: Take Oil Leaks Seriously

If you have noticed that there are spots under your car when you back out of your driveway or a parking space, then it is very likely that your car has an oil leak. If your car is newer, then an oil leak is often a sign of an impending major repair. However, if your car is older and has a slow leak, then it may run for years before needing major work. Ultimately, the only way to know for sure is to take your car to the auto repair shop and have it's engine professionally inspected.

Tip: Change the Air Filter When Changing Your Car's Oil

Your car's engine is also cooled by the air that circulates around it. When the air filter gets clogged, then the engine doesn't get enough of the clean air it needs to run well. When you take you car to get its oil changed, make sure you also change its oil filter.

Tip: Have Your Car Professionally Inspected and Repaired Once Each Year

In conclusion, it is also important to note that you should always have your car professionally inspected and repaired at least once each calendar year. It is simple for a trained mechanic to test drive and listen to your car when it runs and spot parts that are starting to wear out. Catching problems with your car's engine before it leaves you stranded on the side of the highway will save you both time and money.