Routine Car Maintenance: What You Need to Know

Your car is one of the most valuable possessions you’ll have. Buying a car gives you the freedom to go where you need to go so that you can support your family, make a living, and enjoy life. Because of this, it’s critical to consider your car an investment that requires regular maintenance and on which you pay a fair amount of money. The following aspects are important for car owners to consider:

 

Regular Car Maintenance

Although you don’t have to become an expert mechanic to fix cars, there are a few things you should know if you own one.

 

Check your tires

Know the signs of a worn tire tread and how to check your tire pressure.

 

Examine your lights

Know whether the brakes and headlights need to be replaced and how to do it yourself.

 

Inspect your wiper blades

Driving in the rain is unpleasant, especially if visibility is impaired. Learn how to swap these out as needed.

 

Check your oil

Although it’s becoming harder to replace your own oil these days, you still need to know how to periodically check the amount of your oil.

 

Know how to jump-start a car

Batteries run out in the winter. Learn the correct way to jump-start a dead battery in case you become stranded.

 

Signs Your Car Needs Help

Numerous expensive auto repairs began with warning indicators that the owner either disregarded or was unaware of. These are some indicators that it’s time to take your car to the mechanic.

 

Check engine light

This warning light should never be ignored. An ODM reader that can identify the issue code causing the light and indicate when it needs servicing is worth investing in.

 

Tire pressure warnings

These are typically the initial indications that there is a problem with your tires, like a slow leak that may have been caused by a nail you picked up.

 

Brake light indicator

Pay attention to warning lights that indicate a braking issue. Make routine checks of your braking fluids.

 

Transmission temperature warning

If you notice your car is running hot, don’t wait for it to catch fire on the side of the highway! You might have a cracked radiator or a leak elsewhere, which is a serious problem. If it starts to smoke, pull over and let it cool down before popping your hood and taking a look.

 

DIY Maintenance Tips

Here are a few suggestions for skills every driver should know:

 

• Take it slow and don’t overtax your transmission.
• Avoid suspicious gas stations and inexpensive gasoline.
• Avoid carrying a hefty keychain, as this puts strain on your starting mechanism (if you don’t have a “push-to-start” button).
• Obtain insurance from a reliable provider.
• Keep your car clean, both outside and inside.
• Cover your car in extreme weather. 
• Fix windshield chips before they expand.
• Rotate your tires on a regular basis and maintain proper tire pressure.
• Replace your spark plugs, oil, and filters regularly.

 

To ensure that your car lasts as long as you need it to, regular maintenance is necessary!