I own a '97 5spd w/100k. I want to keep this car for a while so I would like to know about engine, transmission, fuel, etc. treatments like prolong, maxlife, etc. will those help to keep your car running good? is there a need to add them if you aren't having problems? how should you add, and if you should add at all. I'd really appreciate anyone's insights on this

 

I would only use Techron in my gas tank....... Other than that, nothing....

 

just pour a bunch of flintstone vitamins into the gas tank

 

In reality, using additives may help, but some additives contain chemicals that will gum up after use, thereby decreasing performance. You then have to continue to use them in order to get rid of the gum that they are creating. As posted, Chevron with Techron is an excellent engine additive, and probably to most you will ever need. I personally have used fuel injector cleaner, but have not used it more than twice (right after I bought the car). Some recommend a transmission flush. I would recommend a service, including the changing of your tranny oil filter (mostly for automatics). That is probably the most critical. Use synthetic oils
and keep high octane gas in there. Oh, and usually, by the time you are having problems, it is too late...just a thought.