You probably put 12 hours of running time on the car every week around town. And I bet you don't much worry about it breaking down every week. So if you think about it, worrying about a breakdown in any given 24 hours of running time is quite unlikey. Agreed? So just drive it and maintain it, and it will take care of you too. And yes, they do seem to run better after a long highway drive.

Condolences regarding your father.