Taking care of your vehicle is crucial for ensuring its longevity, whether it’s new or pre-owned, and whether it’s your initial auto or the fiftieth one. Modern vehicles are intricate machines that require consistent care and attention to maintain their reliability and safety.
Neglecting proper maintenance may lead to costly unforeseen repairs down the line. Components degrade, dirt accumulates, and oil changes become essential.
Proper vehicle maintenance is vital for optimal performance. It also contributes to the safety of other drivers as well as that of you and your passengers. Here’s a checklist to help keep your car running smoothly.
Monitor tire pressure and rotate tires
To enhance tire lifespan and fuel efficiency, ensure that your car’s tires are inflated to the correct pressure. This involves checking the recommended pounds per square inch (PSI), monitoring all tires, and making adjustments accordingly.
Flat tires pose a significant threat to your safety and that of your car. You can mitigate the risk of blowouts by periodically checking for recalls related to tires and rotating them every 5,000 to 10,000 miles.
Inspect your engine oil
Regularly checking and changing your vehicle’s motor oil is essential for maintaining a healthy engine. It’s best practice to check the oil level on a monthly basis and to replace it according to the guidelines in your vehicle’s owner manual (usually based on a timeframe or mileage).
You can either take your vehicle to a repair shop or change the oil yourself. If you choose the latter, make sure you know how to drain the old oil, refill it properly, and dispose of the used oil safely.
Whether you opt for professional service or a DIY approach, knowing the right type of motor oil for your car is important. This generally involves understanding the oil’s viscosity, deciding between synthetic and non-synthetic oil, and considering your vehicle’s mileage. The owner’s manual typically includes the specifications for recommended motor oil.
Maintain headlights and taillights
Faulty or broken light bulbs can jeopardize road safety and may result in fines. Refer to your owner’s manual for information about the exterior light bulbs on your vehicle. When a bulb burns out, determine if the issue lies with the bulb itself or requires a fuse replacement. A technician can assist with these repairs, should you find them challenging.
Your headlights are your primary means of visibility to other drivers, especially in low light conditions. Similarly, taillights are essential for signaling to other vehicles when you brake or want to be seen. To keep them bright, consider cleaning the lenses and replacing any dull bulbs.
Inspect the engine air filter
An unclean engine air filter can impair your car’s engine efficiency due to the entry of dust and debris. It is typically advisable to replace the engine air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or annually, but always refer to your owner’s manual for vehicle-specific guidance.
If you’re changing it on your own, make sure to tidy your work area to avoid letting dirt enter the engine. Remove the filter and hold it up to strong light, like sunlight, to check its cleanliness. If more than half of the filter lets light through, you can reinstall it instead of replacing it.
Some vehicles (mostly pickups) may have a service indicator on the engine air filter housing that signals when it needs replacing.
Examine and replace windshield wipers
If your wiper blades aren’t performing as they should, don’t let the problem continue. Frayed or worn blades can severely impair visibility during heavy rain or snow. Familiarize yourself with how to inspect and replace wiper blades as needed.
According to Consumer Reports, you should consider changing your wipers approximately every six months. If you observe that they are torn, cracked, or excessively worn, they will struggle to clear your windshield effectively.
Check your brake system
Regularly assessing your vehicle’s brakes is important. While driving, listen for any unusual sounds when braking, and pay attention to any shudders or vibrations. If you notice any of these warning signs, contact a mechanic promptly.
A professional will evaluate the brake fluid, inspect the vehicle’s undercarriage, as well as the overall brake system, including the brake pads, rotors, and calipers. Each part of the brake system must function properly for you to drive safely.
Clean your vehicle
While it may seem minor compared to other maintenance tasks, the cleanliness of your vehicle is truly significant. Your car is subjected to various environmental contaminants like bird droppings, tree sap, and road salt. These elements can damage your vehicle’s paint and undercarriage, potentially leading to more significant issues.
In winter conditions with snow and ice, it’s especially important to wash your car to remove salt from the roads. Consider using an under spray or pretreating the underbody. This is also critical if you live near the ocean.
Keeping your vehicle clean can help you avoid long-term damage and maintain its resale value. Take the time to regularly wash your car at Spark Carwash to determine the best car washing routine for you.
