8 Basic Car Maintenance Tips Everyone Should Know

 8 Basic Car Maintenance Tips Everyone Should Know

Caring For The Engine
The engine is the life of your car. Without it, you are left with an unmoving, two-ton mass of metal that will get you nowhere fast. Practice routine engine care at least once a month to ensure the engine won't give out on the busiest highway during your morning commute to work. Pop the hood and inspect these important aspects of your engine. 

Car Filters
Your car has different filters equipped in it to keep fluids separated, regulate the amount of fluids that parts receive, and to prevent air contaminants from reaching the engine. You need to check and replace the air filters, oil filters and fuel filters so they operate at optimal performance.

Oil, Coolant and Power Steering Fluids
You have blood pumping through your body to keep everything working at its best. Your engine has the same vital fluids that will also keep it running. You should always regularly check the engine oil, coolant (antifreeze), and the power steering fluids. There will be reservoirs with caps that will hold these fluids in varying areas under the hood. Your owner's manual can help you pinpoint the exact places.

Checking The Transmission
You want your car to have the power to move tires forward? Then you need to inspect the transmission. Transmission systems require fluid that allow it to smoothly shift power to the wheels. Checking the fluid and replacing it when the fluid becomes degraded will prevent you from buying an expensive new transmission.

Keep Safe By Checking The Brake Systems
It only takes one failed brake disc or broken belt to have you involved a serious accident. If you hear constant squeals every single time you brake or the brake pedal feels spongy when you press on it, get the brake system serviced immediately.
To stay safe you need up ­to­ date, safe parts, and most cars have a system to tell you just how worn your brakes have become.

Battery And Alternator Checks Should Be Done Together
Stop waking up the neighbor at 5am to get a jump. It only takes a simple inspection and cleaning of the battery to allow it to keep charging up your car. In addition, check the connections to ensure they are tight and make sure there is enough water. Before you close the hood, also inspect the alternator. While the battery does supply the power, it is the alternator that actually starts up the battery and keeps the charge.

Pay Attention To Engine Warning Lights
Yes, those engine warning lights are an important aspect to the car. When they turn on, they are telling you there is a problem that needs to be checked out immediately. The longer you drive around with those lights on, the more damage you could be causing to your vehicle and the more money you will spend to get it fixed.

Keep Up With The Routine Check ups
Don't forget the other areas of your car that can use the routine check-up. From checking the tire pressure to making sure all taillights turn on bright, these simple routine inspections makes your car safe to drive while also making you a safe driver for other motorists on the road. Your owner's manual will normally have a schedule on when to perform routine check ups for the car.

Cosmetic Care Also Matters
While it might not seem a big deal, taking care of the exterior and the interior is just as important as servicing the mechanical aspects of your vehicle. Washing and waxing the exterior prevents rust that eats through the metal and can expose the undercarriage components to more wear-and-tear. Cleaning the interior of the vehicle can prevent garbage and dust from accumulating, keeping the cabin smelling fresh and looking great when it comes time to trade in the old car for a new vehicle.

Choose a Trusted Mechanic
While you can perform many of these maintenance services at home, you shouldn't skip out on going to a trusted mechanic or repair shop. Friends and coworkers can give you the best referrals to a great mechanic. Once you find one that you trust, your car can stay in working condition for years to come.