7 BASIC CAR MAINTENANCE TIPS (YOU HAVE TO DO!)

One way to save money on buying a new (or new-to-you) car is to prolong the life of your existing vehicle. Or, if you plan to sell your vehicle, proper car maintenance will increase its resale value. Routine oil changes are a no-brainer, but there are additional routine maintenance measures that can easily be overlooked. That’s why we compiled this handy list of basic car maintenance tips that can improve the quality and reliability of your car and save you money in the long run.

1. Wash Your Car Regularly

While it’s tempting to just rely on nature’s car wash, regular rain showers shouldn’t be your preferred method of washing your car. Unwashed dirt can lead to scratches or chips and can even fade your car’s color.

2. Check Your Battery

A car battery lasts an average of two to five years. You can prolong the life of your battery by following some basic maintenance tips. You should check your battery annually and keep an eye out for warning signs that indicate your battery is nearing the end of its lifespan. These include dim headlights and a car that is slow to start or won’t start at all.

You should also check your car battery’s terminals to make sure the connections are clean and free of debris buildup. Also, make sure the wires from the connectors are tight and without frays or breaks.

3. Replace Your Air Filters 

If anything interrupts this flow of air, the engine will sputter or stall. Use only quality filters or insist that only quality filters be used. Your owner’s manual will have specific intervals for oil and fuel filter replacements. Follow these manufacturer’s recommendations rigidly.

4. Check Your Wheels and Tyres

Tyre pressure directly affects tread life, safety, and fuel economy. Yet few people remember to check their tyres’ pressure regularly. Tread wear is another important factor. The less tread you have, the less grip your tyres will provide, especially during quick maneuvers or hard stops during inclement weather. Tyre tread depth should be well above the indicator bars built into the tread. When your tyres begin to get close, get them replaced.

5. Check Your Windshield Wipers

Did you know that windshield wiper blades should be replaced every six to 12 months? If you didn’t, chances are that you should probably change your wiper blades. If you hear a screech when your windshield wipers are activated, or if they leave streaks on your windshield, then it’s time for replacement blades. Properly maintaining your windshield wipers will help ensure that you have maximum visibility in the event of a snow or rainstorm.

6. Check Your Brakes

Properly maintaining your brakes can help keep you safe while also prolonging the life of your vehicle. You can determine if it’s time to have your brakes checked by listening for telltale signs and by completing a visual inspection.

Be sure to listen for these common brake sounds that can indicate when maintenance is needed. 

Scraping– This happens when brake pads are worn out and are rubbing against the rotor.

Rattling– This suggests that one of the rotors needs to be replaced.

Vibrating– A vibrating noise at the brake pedal is another indicator your brakes require maintenance.

7. Read Your Owner’s Manual

You don’t have to read it cover to cover, but at the very least you should keep it handy and refer to it often. Your owner’s manual will provide you with a maintenance schedule that will let you know when parts of your vehicle need to be serviced.

While regular maintenance may seem expensive, it’s far more cost-effective than the costly repairs you’re likely to incur if you don’t follow these easy steps.

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