As a car owner, you may believe you have it all under control, but there are certain auto care tips that many people ignore. Keeping your car in good condition does not always require a mechanic trip. With a little know-how, you can perform the needed tasks yourself and save money. From checking fluids to replacing filters, we have prepared a list of DIY car servicing tips to help maintain your vehicle and keep it running smoothly.
Regular Oil Changes
Changing the oil is important. It helps your engine continue to run efficiently and also increases its lifespan. Ideally, the oil should be changed after 3,000 to 5,000 miles, depending on your driving habits and vehicle type. When changing the oil, check your owner’s manual for specifics and always use the recommended oil type and brand. A little effort can go far in avoiding damage to the engines.
Battery Inspection
Regularly checking your car’s battery could help avoid unexpected problems. Check for corrosion on the terminals and ensure the battery is firmly attached. Most car batteries last between three and five years, so keep track of their age. If your engine cranks slowly or your headlights are dim, it may be time to replace them.
Clean and Wax Your Car’s Exterior
Taking care of the car’s exterior keeps it looking new and shields it from environmental pollutants. Wash, polish, and thoroughly clean the exterior and interior of your car regularly to prevent rust and preserve its value.
Change Spark Plugs
These spark plugs are small, but their function is significant. They combust the fuel in the engine to keep your car running. Spark plugs become ineffective over time and, therefore, require replacement. Replace them after every 30,000 miles or as suggested in your car’s user guide. New spark plugs yield improved fuel economy and smooth running.
Replace Windshield Wipers
A dirty windshield can harm your vision, making driving dangerous. Regular cleaning is important for maintaining clear vision and avoiding mishaps. When you operate the wipers, dirt and dust particles may accumulate, harming the windshield. Inspect and replace old wipers as the rainy season approaches to avoid scratching the glass and reducing vision.
Check and Rotate the Tire
Tire maintenance is important for safety and fuel efficiency. Regularly monitoring and rotating your tires ensures consistent wearing and increases their life. Moreover, keep an eye on your tires’ pressure and make sure they are properly filled according to the guidelines. Also, look for signs of wear, cracks, and items trapped in the tire tread, and keep the spare tire inflated.
Check and Replace the Engine Air Filter
A blocked air filter can affect fuel consumption and performance. Check it every 12,000 miles or once a year, and replace it if it is unclean. This simple move can enhance your car’s general health and let your engine breathe more easily.
Refer to the Owner’s Manual
People only read the owner’s manual when forced to, which is a mistake. Owner’s manuals describe all of a car’s features, even ones you probably didn’t realize you had, as well as what oil or fluid to use and what maintenance plan to follow. Understanding your automobile better will allow you to successfully undertake DIY maintenance and keep your vehicle in good shape. If the manual did not come with the car, you can most likely find one for free online.
Replace Cabin Air Filter
If you have a family member who is sensitive to dust and other airborne particles, you should consider replacing your car’s cabin air filter. It is one of the simplest methods to keep everyone safe and comfortable in your vehicle. The best time to replace the cabin air filter is every 12,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. However, you can find the suggested replacement schedule for air filters in the owner’s manual.
Inspect Belts and Hoses
Regularly check your car’s belts and hoses for indications of wear and tear. Check for cracks, fraying, and leaks. Replace worn belts and hoses to avoid failures and costly repairs. Keeping these components in excellent condition ensures that your engine functions smoothly and without unforeseen problems.
Flush Radiator and Coolant System
You should flush the radiator and replace the coolant every two to three years to avoid overheating and corrosion. Periodically, the coolant becomes less effective as a heat transfer agent due to chemical reactions. Through a regular flush, your cooling system runs smoothly and prevents your engine from overheating, making it last longer.
Replace Brake Pads
Brake pads wear out over a certain period and require replacement for efficient braking. Examine and replace them as soon as they are worn down to 1/4 inch thick. Good brake pads are critical to your safety, providing the stopping strength required in all driving circumstances.
Look Out For Warning Lights
Many people do not pay much attention to whether the lights on the dashboard are functioning correctly. If the warning lights on your dashboard are broken, it is high time you fix them so that you do not encounter any problems. Ignoring the warning lights may result in serious issues and expensive damage in the future.
Lubricate Door Hinges
Without lubrication, the car doors may twist out of alignment and even stick, and hinges may eventually bend. You can use silicone spray to smooth the door hinges on your car to keep them from rusting and to guarantee smooth functioning. It is an easy adjustment that keeps the doors operating smoothly.
Maintain Exhaust System
The exhaust system greatly affects the car’s performance. It controls engine noise, preserves fuel economy, and moves dangerous gasses away from the car’s interior. Neglecting maintenance can result in inefficient engine performance and increased fuel usage. Hence, you may need to check it frequently for loose parts, leaks, and corrosion. Moreover, replace or repair damaged portions to ensure appropriate exhaust flow and minimize noise.
Adjust Headlights
Properly aimed headlights ensure you see the road clearly and do not blind other car drivers. Check and adjust your headlights periodically. This simple adjustment can make nighttime driving safer for you and others.
Clean Your Engine Cover
The cover shields the car’s engine from dirt, yet many of us never bother to clean it. Keeping it tidy is important for effective cooling and can help detect possible problems like leakage. You can use a gentle cleaner on the surface and a soft brush to scrub off the grime and grease. A clean engine cover contributes to your car’s performance and also makes the engine bay area more presentable.
Check the Suspension System
Car owners frequently neglect the state of their suspension system, which includes springs, struts, and shock absorbers. It’s important to understand that if one shock absorber fails, all four need to be replaced to preserve balance and safety. Shocks and other suspension parts should be inspected every 15,000 to 30,000 miles to guarantee maximum performance and safety.
Zainab Noor is a motoring journalist. Childhood rides in Nissan Almera fueled her love for cars. After graduating from AIOU in 2021, she steered her passion into freelance writing. You can find Zainab on LinkedIn.
