Do you want to save money on car repairs? This informative guide covers 15 essential car maintenance tasks you can do yourself, topics like checking your oil, changing your tires, and more. With this knowledge, you can keep your car running smoothly and avoid expensive repairs.
Essential Car Maintenance Tasks
Did you know that there are some tasks and tricks about car maintenance that you can do yourself? Here are :
15 essential car maintenance tasks that you can do yourself
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1. Checking and adjusting tire pressure
Tires that are under-inflated can decrease fuel efficiency and cause uneven wear. Use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure of your tires and adjust them to the recommended pressure, which can usually be found in the vehicle's manual or on a sticker inside the driver's door jamb.
2. Changing the oil and oil filter
Regular oil changes are essential to keeping your engine running smoothly. Purchase the correct oil and oil filter for your vehicle and follow the recommended oil change schedule in your vehicle's manual.
3. Checking and replacing air filters
A dirty air filter can reduce fuel efficiency and power. Check your air filter every 12,000 miles or 12 months, and replace it if it's dirty.
4. Replacing wiper blades
Wiper blades that are worn or damaged can leave streaks on your windshield and make it difficult to see in bad weather. Replace your wiper blades every six months or when they start to leave streaks.
5. Checking and replacing brake pads
Worn or damaged brake pads can decrease braking performance and increase the risk of an accident. Check your brake pads and replace them every 12,000 miles or 12 months, if they're worn or damaged.
6. Checking and replacing headlights and taillights
Burned-out headlights and taillights can make it difficult to see and be seen while driving. Check your headlights and taillights regularly and replace them if they're burned out.
7. Checking and replacing transmission fluid
Transmission fluid helps to lubricate and cool the transmission. Check your transmission fluid level every 30,000 miles or 30 months and replace it as needed.
8. Checking and replacing the battery
A weak or dead battery can cause your car to stall or not start. Check the battery and replace it every 48,000 miles or 48 months if it's weak or dead.
9. Rotating Tires
Rotating your tires can help ensure even wear and extend the life of your tires. It is recommended to rotate your tires every 6,000 miles or 6 months.
10. Cleaning the interior and exterior of your car
Keeping your car clean can help improve its appearance and protect the paint and interior materials. You can use a vacuum cleaner, a microfiber cloth, and a car-specific cleaner to clean the interior, and a hose and a car-specific cleaner to clean the exterior.
11. Checking and replacing windshield wiper fluid
Wiper fluid helps to clean your windshield and improve visibility. Check the wiper fluid level regularly and refill it as needed.
12. Checking and replacing engine belts
The engine belts help to power the alternator, water pump, power steering pump, and other components. Check the engine belts every 30,000 miles or 30 months and replace them if they're worn or damaged.
13. Checking and maintaining the suspension system
The suspension system helps to ensure a smooth ride and good handling. Check the suspension system every 30,000 miles or 30 months and replace any worn or damaged components.
14. Checking and maintaining the steering system
The steering system helps you to steer your car. Check the steering system every 30,000 miles or 30 months and replace any worn or damaged components.
15. Checking and maintaining the air conditioning system
The air conditioning system helps to keep the interior of your car cool. Check the air conditioning system every 30,000 miles or 30 months and replace any worn or damaged components.
By performing these tasks, you can help ensure that your car is running at its best, minimize breakdowns and prolong the life of your vehicle. It's important to consult the owner's manual or ask a professional mechanic for the appropriate maintenance schedule for your vehicle.
DIY repairs can be a great way to save time and money. But before you start, you need to make sure you have the right tools and equipment. Check out our list of essential items and Benefits of DIY repairs, and get some tips on common mistakes to avoid.