Understanding the basics of car maintenance is key for your vehicles longevity, performance, and safety. From oil changes to tire checks and everything in-between, making a point to consistently tick off simple, yet effective, maintenance practices can save you money and hassle.
It may sound like a lot, but a small checklist is all you really need. Sit back and relax, we’ll walk you through some non-negotiable car maintenance tasks that every car owner should know.
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Keep on top of oil changes
Engine oil helps keep all the moving parts inside your engine lubricated and running properly.
As a rough guide, conventional oil may need changing every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, while synthetic oil can often last around 7,500 to 10,000 miles. However, always check your vehicle handbook, as the recommended interval can vary.
Signs your oil may need changing? Look out for dirty-looking oil, louder engine noise, or an oil warning light appearing on your dashboard.
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Check your air filter
Your air filter helps stop dust, dirt and debris from getting into the engine. A clogged air filter is a big no-no.
A dirty air filter can cause reduced performance, poorer fuel economy or unusual engine sounds.
Most air filters need replacing every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, but this can be sooner if you regularly drive on dusty roads or in heavy traffic.
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Look after your tyres
Make sure your tyre pressure is set to the manufacturer’s recommended level. Underinflated tyres can affect handling and fuel efficiency, while overinflated tyres may wear unevenly and make the ride feel harsher.
It’s also worth rotating your tyres every 6,000 to 8,000 miles, or around the same time as your oil change, to help them wear more evenly.
Don’t forget to check tread depth too. In the UK, the legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre but replacing them before they reach that point can help maintain better grip, especially in wet weather.
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Pay attention to your brakes
Brake pads are usually checked during routine servicing, but you should get them looked at sooner if you notice squealing, grinding, vibrations, or if the brake pedal feels unusually soft
If something feels off when braking, it’s always better to get it checked quickly rather than waiting for the problem to get worse.
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Keep an eye on the battery
Your battery powers the electrical systems and helps start the engine. If it’s weak or failing, you could find yourself stuck when you least expect it.
Check that the battery is secure and look out for any corrosion around the terminals. If you notice your car is slow to start, your lights look dim, or the battery warning light appears, it could be time to have it tested.
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Check your fluid levels
Your car relies on more than just engine oil. Coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid and screen wash all help keep things working properly.
Try to check your fluid levels at least once a month, especially before long journeys. Low levels can lead to overheating, braking issues, steering problems or poor visibility if your screen wash runs out.
Dashboard warning lights, rising engine temperatures or difficulty steering can all be signs that one of your fluids needs attention.
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