Drivers are always looking for ways to make their cars efficient and reliable. Sure, modern vehicles are the best they’ve ever been, but they’re still far from being maintenance-free wonder-machines.

Therefore, if you’re the proud owner of a car, don’t be like the many college students that change their oil once or twice in a year just because they forget to do it. Your car won’t take care of itself. So, make the habit to check up on it regularly.

Below are seven crucial things to check regularly to ensure your car stays in peak condition at all times.

  1. Oil

The oil keeps everything spinning smoothly in your vehicle, and without the right level or quality, you’ll inevitably run into problems. It is essential to pull out the dipstick at least once a month and confirm you have the right level of oil. Also, take your car for an oil change frequently, as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer, mechanic or local dealer.

  1. Brakes

Many drivers wait for that screeching sound to tell them their brake pads need replacing, but a regular check will keep you safe and on the road. Have a professional inspect the condition of your brake pads, along with the brake fluid level and quality, as part of your routine maintenance.

  1. Alignment

You’ll probably notice when your alignment gets bad, but to be safe, have it looked at as frequently as possible. Alignment determines how a vehicle handles on the road. If it’s compromised, your car may not steer and react the way you want, which can be dangerous when you need to move quickly to avoid an accident.

  1. Power-Steering Fluid

Have you ever driven a car without power steering? Then you know how important it is to check the fluid. A low level can jeopardise your power steering and make it hard to control your car. Fortunately, you can check and refill this fluid yourself, just like your engine oil.

  1. Air Filter

As the name implies, the air filter’s responsibility is clean the air entering the engine. A clogged filter will compromise combustion and result in poor fuel efficiency. Getting it checked regularly and replaced as needed will cost you very little, so, make it a part of your maintenance routine. Most service shops will check it for you free of charge when they change your oil.

  1. Tire Pressure

Tires that are improperly inflated are an accident waiting to happen. They can also get you stranded on the roadside. Moreover, the wrong level of inflation decreases your car’s fuel efficiency. A tire pressure gauge is an affordable, easy-to-use tool that can come in handy when inspecting the tires. Check with the tire manufacturer to know the right pressure.

  1. All the Lights

A broken light on your car can be dangerous, so take care not to overlook any of them. While you may quickly catch a headlight that is out, it is much easier to miss a malfunctioning brake light, taillight, or turn signal. These lights are vital to informing other drivers what you’re about to do, and preventing accidents.

Conclusion

Keeping your car in good condition is essential if you wish to be safe and in control on the road. The things above take little time and effort to check, but they can save money and even your life in the long run.

Last update on 2023-04-15 at 07:41 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API