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Essential Car Care Tips

If you want to know the best tips in car care, ask a mechanic.



Good thing you don't have to drop by their garage to ask for their tips because I already gathered them for you.

But before I give you the most essential tips in car care, let me tell you why it's important to take care of your car.

Like any other things, cars deteriorate depending on how well you take care of your car. As it wears and tears, it should be properly taken care of and have regularly scheduled maintenance.

Failure in getting your car checked would cost you more due to repairs and possible replacement of parts.

You should always consider your safety. It will help your car to run efficiently and keep you away from accidents. Your car will be more reliable and you'll have peace of mind when driving.

And if you ever think of selling your car in the future, a car well taken care of has more resale value.



Now are the tips I gathered for you



Routine Check


Having a good habit of performing a routine check and car maintenance will help you avoid any road emergencies. It will extend the life of your car.



If you're not familiar with the ideal schedule of maintenance, here are the basics:

For monthly maintenance, check your:

  • Engine lights
  • Interior and exterior cleaning
  • Tyre conditions
  • Windshield fluid.


For every 6 months or 3000 miles, everything in monthly maintenance, plus:

  • Automatic transmission fluid
  • Battery and cables
  • Belts
  • Chassis
  • Engine oil and air filters
  • exhaust
  • Fuel filters
  • lights
  • Power steering fluid
  • Wiper blades


Check Light Indicators

Light indicators tell you the things that need immediate attention. Make sure not to take them lightly. It tells you if there's an issue with your car.

Here are the most important warning lights:


Engine temperature

If this lights up, pull over and let your car cool down. Your car's coolant is overheating, which is the reason that you need your car to keep your engine safe.


Oil Pressure

An oil pressure light up your engine has lost its normal oil pressure. There could be a serious problem in the engine. When this happens, you need to pull over and call for a mechanic for immediate attention.


Battery Charge

Battery charge light turns on when your battery is running low. Turn off your air-conditioning and interior lights right away to save your battery. Don't turn off your car until you get to a car repair shop or at least somewhere safe.


Brake light

If it blinks but there's no change on how your brake works, then it should be diagnosed in-car services. If the light is lit steady, pull the car to the side and have it towed to the nearest car repair shop.


Check Tire Pressures, Depth Thread, and Alignment

Make it a habit check tire pressures every week or every month. Use your owner's manual to see the recommended tire pressure for your tires.

Now to check if your car needs new tyres, use the penny test. This is where you turn your penny upside down and placing it between the tire ribs. If you see the entire head that means it is highly recommended to change your wheels soon.

Used tyres are cheaper than buying new tyres. Buying second hand tyres aren't bad. You should at least use the penny method if the used wheels are still roadworthy. Buying new wheels in Australia is quite common than buying used tyres. This is because tyres are becoming cheaper nowadays.
Checking your wheel alignment (wheel balance) ensures that your tyres work properly. It will help in handling and keeping your wheels in the right direction. Car services offer to check your tyre suspension and alignment.


Change Motor Oil

Motor oil lubricates the inner components of the engine. It also protects your engine from corrosion. As a rule of thumb, your oil should be changed every 5,000 to 10,000 run. This protects your engine from wear and tear and helps your engine work properly.


Serpentine Belt

Although the serpentine belt is not an expensive part of your vehicle, it plays a major role in running your vehicle. You can check if the belt is free from cracks or wear and tear. Replace it when you see any damage on it.


Battery Check

The battery is one of the most essential parts of your car. Clean the contacts when needed. Your battery is to perform properly to ensure that your car doesn't die out on you while driving. It's a good idea to have a battery tester and jump starter for any battery emergencies.



Car Services

Make sure that your car repair shop offers logbook servicing or new car warranty servicing. It makes sure that your car is fixed according to your manufactures standard and quality. Form a habit of regular checking of your vehicle in-car services near you. This will not only help you avoid costly repairs, but it ensures your safety when you're on the road.