I just paid off my 99 caviler, I want to make it last as long as possible and run it till it dies or rusts away on me. Its got over 100k on it and it needs a new serpentine belt, so I will replace that, put new plugs and wires and an air filter in. I'm not sure whether it needs shocks or not right now, its spring in VT so it'll be bumpy and bouncy anyways whether they work or dont. I'm gonna get the tranny flushed (automagic) sometime this week, and suck the black and nasty brake fluid out and throw some fresh stuff in there, same with the power steering. The car overall just feels loose, like going around it with a torque wrench will improve everything about it, is there a big benefit to doing this and spraying certain parts down with grease? I'm not sure about the exhaust, so I'll give that a check, and I think it might need an alignment. so basically all that, is there anything else anyone can think of that will help it last longer? I'm not too worried about gas milage since it stays around mid 20's and that seems about normal.
there doesnt seem to be anything "wrong" with the car, just needs tightening I guess

with over 100k, I'm sure a lot of your bushings are dying to be replaced. lube will help a little, but they're still old/used bushings. I don't own a cavy but this applies to basically all cars in general.

that sounds like a pretty involved job, and how much are bushings:?

Don't know if there's a kit or not..... You'd prolly have to price everything individually....ie....control arm, sway bushings (if there are any).......sorry I don't have a cavlier maybe someon with more expertise will list them for you...

D- I am doing the same thing with my wife's 2001 Cavalier. Its nothing fancy, but we're seeing how long we can get it to last.

I think you're on the right track with replacing the fluids. Many people forget to flush their brake & power steering fluid. Good call.

Replacing bushings and front end parts is fairly easy and cheap. Any local parts house will be able to get you what you need.

I would also recommend doing an 'undercoat' job with a rust preventative paint such as POR-15. You could also go over this with some rubberized undercoating for added protection if you live in a state where there's lots of salt in the wintertime. I plan on doing this over the summer. Its a messy job, but it will save you from dealing with structural rust!

As long as we're talking about rust, be sure to really clean your undercarriage and door jambs out after a harsh winter. Make sure drain holes are clean and free of dirt, etc. Rinse the inner wheel wells and behind the rear bumper cover, and make sure your engine bay gets a good steam cleaning or degreasing every season to keep an eye on any new leaks or underhood problems.

I have always been a stickler for prevention. Keep your car in good shape and you will rarely be stranded, and you usually get more money at resale or trade-in time.

Good luck with your preventative maintenance. Its always worth doing.

Is it 2200 powered? If so, you'll need a timing chain. NOW! I speak from experience on this.

Go beyond the "bolt-on".