By Atunlute Isaac
These days, the car is regarded as an investment. If you have a new car or an older reliable car, upkeep is the way to maximize its performance, safety, and longevity. The good news? You don’t need to be a mechanic to keep your car in pristine condition. With a blend of smart habits and constant checks, you will keep your vehicle running for years to come.
Stick to a routine oil change
The engine lubricant is the lifeline of an engine. It eases friction between the moving parts, stops overheating, and guarantees a smooth ride. Over time, the engine may break down and pick up dirt, causing it to malfunction. Depending on your vehicle, engine lubricant like Total Quartz or Mobil makes for a good option.
Check Fluid Levels
In addition to the engine lubricant, several other vital fluids add to the functionality of your vehicle. They include brake fluid, coolant, transmission fluid, windscreen washer fluid, and power steering fluid. All these fluids must be inspected at regular intervals, especially before long travel. Low or dirty fluids can create major mechanical issues, from brake malfunction to overheating.
Check Your Tires Regularly
Tires are essential to the safety and performance of your car. Threadbare tires or under-inflated tires can affect handling, reduce fuel economy and, worse, cause accidents. Ensure to inspect tire pressure every month and keep it at the manufacturer’s recommended level. Also, check out the treads (the patterned parts of the tyre) and look for uneven wear; this could be a sign that your car needs alignment or suspension inspection.
Mind Your Brakes
Your brakes are your first line of defence while driving. Do not ignore the squealing or grinding noises that the brakes emit when you press them. They may be signs of shabby brake pads or critical faults in the brake system. It is often best to have your brakes inspected by a technician sooner once you notice strange noises.
Maintain Your Battery
A dead battery can leave you stranded during the worst moment. To avoid such an unpleasant surprise, check your battery terminals for corrosion, ensuring they are securely attached. In the same vein, check the voltage often, especially in harsh weather. Most automobile batteries will last 3–5 years, so consider a replacement if yours is already past its prime.
Don’t Ignore Regular Servicing
Every car has a manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. This includes important checks and replacements like air filters, spark plugs, timing belts, wiper blades and more. Skipping these services may save you money in the present, but it will cost you a fortune in the future.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining your car like a pro doesn’t require a mechanic’s toolkit or deep technical knowledge. Consistency and attention will prove more useful. Similarly, these tips shouldn’t replace the auto-technician. They are useful for routine checks, not critical faults. In any case, they’ll increase the longevity of your vehicle and enhance its resale value.
Maintaining a vehicle properly is crucial to optimize its performance, safety, and lifespan. Key maintenance tasks include regular oil changes to keep the engine lubricated and prevent overheating. It's important to regularly check vital fluids like brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid to prevent major mechanical issues. Keeping an eye on tire pressure and tread ensures that tires remain safe and fuel-efficient. Listening for unusual sounds from brakes and having a technician inspect them can prevent critical faults. Maintaining the battery by checking for corrosion and voltage can avoid untimely failures, and being aware of its lifespan (typically 3-5 years) is important. Adhering to the manufacturer's service schedule for components like air filters and spark plugs is essential for long-term savings and vehicle reliability. While these tips enhance vehicle longevity and resale value, they shouldn't replace professional mechanic services for critical issues. Consistent attention is key to efficient car maintenance.
