10 tips to maintain your vehicles

Vehicle maintenance is important to ensure safety, optimal performance, and longevity. Regular maintenance can minimize unexpected breakdowns, improve fuel efficiency, and avoid costly repairs.

Follow the below 10 tips to maintain your vehicles

1. Regular Oil Changes

Oil is the lifeblood of your car’s engine. It keeps the moving parts lubricated, reduces friction, and prevents overheating. Engine oil should be changed every 3,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on the vehicle and type of oil used. Always remember to consult your owner’s manual to determine the recommended interval for the vehicle you drive.

 

Neglecting oil changes can cause sludge and engine failure. So, developing a habit of checking the oil levels and topping them off is a good one.

2. Tire Maintenance: More Than Just Air Pressure

Tires are the only part of the vehicle that comes in contact with the road. They have a direct impact on the car’s safety and performance. There are three main tire care essentials that should be followed:

Tire Rotation

Tire rotation is one of the simplest yet most effective tire maintenance procedures. It involves moving tires from one position on the vehicle to another (e.g., front to back, or side to side). Regular tire rotation ensures even wear across all four tires, prolonging their lifespan and improving overall safety. As per NeoTires, tires should be rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles or during every oil change. Some tire manufacturers require regular rotations to maintain warranty coverage, so check the specific requirements for your tires.

Check Tire Pressure Regularly

Proper tire inflation is crucial for fuel efficiency, tire longevity, and handling. Underinflated or overinflated tires can lead to uneven tread wear, reduced control, and increased risk of blowouts. Check the pressure monthly and always before long trips, using the specifications found in your car’s manual or on the driver’s side door frame.

Inspect for Wear and Tear

Keep an eye on your tire tread depth. If the tread is worn down to 2/32 of an inch or less, it’s time for a replacement. Uneven tread wear could indicate problems with alignment or suspension, which should be addressed immediately.

3. Brake Inspection

Brakes are a key component in ensuring your vehicle’s safety. Over time, brake pads wear out and must be replaced to maintain effective braking performance. Listen for any squealing or grinding sounds, which can indicate that the brake pads are getting too thin. It’s a good idea to have your brakes inspected annually or if you notice any signs of decreased braking efficiency.

4. Battery Care

Your car battery supplies the power necessary to start the engine and operate all electrical components. To ensure a long battery life:

• Check the Terminals: Make sure the battery terminals are clean, tight, and free from corrosion.
• Test the Battery: Batteries generally last 3-5 years, but it’s wise to test them annually after they’re three years old to avoid getting stranded with a dead battery.

5. Fluid Checks

Your car relies on multiple fluids for smooth operation, including coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid. Make it a point to check these fluids regularly:

• Coolant: Maintaining the right coolant levels helps prevent the engine from overheating.
• Transmission Fluid: This is crucial for smooth gear shifts. Make sure it’s at the appropriate level and has a healthy pink color.
• Brake Fluid: Low brake fluid can lead to reduced braking efficiency, so keep an eye on the fluid reservoir and refill it if necessary.

6. Routine Alignment and Suspension Checks

Proper wheel alignment is crucial for maintaining control of your vehicle and ensuring even tire wear. Misalignment can be caused by driving over potholes or hitting curbs and can result in your vehicle pulling to one side or uneven tire wear. Regular suspension checks are also important, especially if you notice a bumpy or unstable ride.

7. Windshield Wipers and Lighting

Don’t overlook smaller components like windshield wipers and headlights, as they are critical for visibility and safety.

• Wiper Blades: Replace wiper blades at least once a year, or when they start to leave streaks. This is particularly important during rainy seasons when visibility is paramount.
• Lights: Ensure all exterior and interior lights are functioning properly. This includes headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals. A burnt-out light could make your vehicle less visible to other drivers and could lead to a ticket.

8. Air Filter Replacement

Air filters prevent dirt, dust, and other contaminants from entering your engine. Over time, these filters become clogged, reducing engine efficiency and affecting fuel economy. Replacing your air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, or according to your manufacturer’s recommendation, can make a noticeable difference in your vehicle’s performance.

9. Seasonal Maintenance

Seasonal changes often bring different challenges for your car. In winter, ensure you have adequate antifreeze levels and consider using winter tires if you live in a region with heavy snowfall. In summer, check your coolant system to prevent overheating, and make sure your air conditioning is functioning well to keep you comfortable.

10. Keep a Maintenance Log

Lastly, keep a log of all maintenance activities performed on your vehicle. This helps you keep track of upcoming services and is particularly useful when selling your car, as it shows potential buyers that the vehicle has been well taken care of.