Maintenance and care for life.

I'm 60 and really don't want to buy another truck. Not only are trucks getting really expensive but the technology is getting stupid. What is everyone, who wants their truck to last, doing to preserve their truck?
My day to day driving is mostly short drives which is not conducive to long engine life so I change my oil more often than normal. Every 3000 miles/5000km. The transmission fluid I change (drain and fill) every two years. (50,000 km) The engine coolant, I drain a gallon/add a gallon every year. I use PH test strips to test it as well and its always good and very clean. This operation takes 15 minutes. I just bought a brake fluid moisture tester and it told me to change soon. My wife's corolla showed red and beeped really fast, which means change immediately. I recently learned that brake fluid is hydroscopic, which means it attracts moisture, and can cause the brake cylinders to rust and become sticky. The rear diff fluid every 3 years and the transfer case every 3 years. Not sure what other maintenance tips someone may have but I am open to suggestions. Also, when I start the engine, I let it run 15 to 20 seconds before I move and when I merge onto the road, I accelerate slowly until the engine is at operating temperature. I'm finding this easier to do now than I would have just 20 years ago.

 

You seem to be doing it all. Nothing to add, except do what you can to prevent rust & corrosion from road salt/brine.

 

Obviously air filters for the engine and the cabin AC system every 25k or more often depending on your driving conditions. Spark plugs every 30-100k depending on what type you use. Power steering fluid whenever you do the brake fluid.

 

Oh yes. I forgot to add that I have it oils sprayed every spring. Thanks

 

I actually forgot about the power steering fluid. Not a bad idea to flush that too. Air filters I do but forgot to mention. Thanks