For most of us, our cars are our lifelines to engaging with and exploring the world around us. From road trip vacations, heading to work, picking up the groceries, or visiting a friend, they help keep us on the move. While modern cars have become ever more complicated pieces of engineering, there are still several simple car care steps that any owner can take to keep their vehicle in top condition.
And it isn’t just about having a vehicle that looks well kept; maintenance benefits you by:
- Improving car safety when driving
- Enhancing performance and reducing breakdowns
- Avoids more expensive repairs
- Bumps efficiency and cleaner engine operation for the environment
We have compiled our top list of basic maintenance that any car owner can do, no matter their knowledge level. Upkeep can prevent significant issues from forming, saving you in potentially expensive repair costs or roadside emergencies. So let’s look at why these items are important and how you can do them at home.
Simple Car Care for All Drivers
One quick safety note for maintenance: It is best to park on level ground and allow the engine time to cool entirely from operation, especially when dealing with fluids like coolant and oil.
1. Tire Maintenance
Our car's tires see some of the most profound wear and tear out of any other vehicle part. They also play a significant role in handling and fuel economy. So for the sake of your health and wallet, pay attention to both your tire pressure and tread. Some new cars come equipped with built-in gauges for pressure; otherwise, a manual gauge only runs for around $2.
How to check your tires:
- Know the Recommended PSI - Car manufacturers specify an ideal PSI for tires that you can find in the manual. Note if the front and rear sets should be different
- Check Each Tire - Remove the valve cap and press the gauge down onto the stem.
- Adjust Low Readings - If a tire has a pressure below the recommendation, fill using an air compressor. You can usually find them at any gas station if you don't own one.
- Look at the Tread Amount - Some tires have a wear bar in the tread. If those are flush with the rest of the tread, it is time for new tires. Otherwise, you can use a penny. If you can see all of Abe’s head, it is time for a replacement.
- Check Wear Pattern - When checking tread depth, do so across each tire. It should be relatively even. If one side is wearing faster, your vehicle may require a realignment.
Check tire pressure and the tire tread once a month.
2. Checking the Oil
Engines have many moving parts, and that movement needs to be smooth and unimpeded by friction. Keeping your car's oil topped up and clean prevents knocking, damage, and can also help boost fuel economy.
How to check your oil:
- Park on Level Ground - This maintenance requires a level setting for accuracy.
- Clean Oil Dipstick - Have a clean rag at hand, clean the dipstick once, and then reinsert it to get an accurate oil level.
- Reading the Level - Most dipsticks have two indicators for high and low levels. Your oil level should fall somewhere between the two markings.
- Adjust as Needed- If your dipstick reading is below the low marking, add oil until it reaches an appropriate level in small increments. You don’t want to dump a lot in and overfill.
- Pay Attention to Color - When checking the oil level, pay attention to the color. Most engine oils have an amber color; if it is dark black, you are in dire need of an oil change.
Check oil monthly and have it changed every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or at least once a year.
3. Maintaining Clean Coolant Levels
The coolant system isn’t just about keeping parts from overheating. It regulates temperatures year-round to keep engines operating no matter how hot or cold it gets outside.
A coolant system must be kept at certain fluid levels and clean to work. If something goes wrong here, you will quickly find yourself stranded and with the potential need for more expensive repairs.
How to check your coolant system:
- Locate the Coolant Reservoir - It is generally easily visible due to the distinctive blue-green color of the fluid.
- Check for Impurities - A dirty or rust tint to the color will indicate more significant radiator issues that need to be addressed.
- Check Fill Level - There should be a fill line on the reservoir. If needed, add the appropriate coolant mix until you hit the bar.
- Look Over Lines - Visually inspect the hoses exiting the reservoir for damage or leaks.
Check your car's coolant system every 3 to 6 months.
4. Exterior Care
Car owners can take many simple steps to keep vehicles running in top shape. The easiest is making sure the exterior is in good condition.
Allowing paint coats, wipers, and trim work to degrade from the elements not only looks terrible, but can allow that wear to seep into the engine. Just like you need skin to protect your body, your car needs a healthy exterior.
How to maintain car exteriors:
- Regularly Wash - Keep your car free of grime and corrosive materials.
- Wax and Polish - This step isn’t about making it shiny. Polishes protect your paint from the elements between washes and can condition seals and trim made of softer materials.
- Protect Windshield - It is your window to the world, and it needs to be clean and clear. Make sure to top up wiper fluid and check wiper blades for dry rot or cracking that can scratch.
Check your car's wiper blades and fluids every 3 to 6 months and wax every 3 months.
When to See an Expert
As you can tell, there is a lot of do-it-yourself car care that is pretty simple. But when it comes to diagnosing more significant issues and repairing more intricate engine systems, it is best to leave that to a professional. Trusting an expert means the repair will be done correctly and reduces the chance of injuring yourself or doing more significant damage to your car.
Located in Asheville, NC, First Aid Collision is happy to help with any auto body repair work our customers need throughout western North Carolina. Our technicians are ASE certified, ensuring you get the repairs you need to be done right the first time.
Schedule an appointment for a free estimate on everything from dents and dings to heavy collision damage.