Vehicle care can help keep your car on the road for a long time. If you wait until something breaks to get it looked at, it might take a while to get it back on the road.
That’s why we’ve put together a short list of things that you should check regularly on your car. We call it vehicle maintenance.
Read on to learn about the seven automotive maintenance tips you’ll want to remember.
1. Inspect and Maintain Tires
Check your tire pressure weekly (both cold and hot) and make sure that there’s enough air in each tire. Correct tire pressure ensures the highest fuel efficiency, safety, and comfort. Regular tire inspection allows you to check for tread wear, bulges, cracks, and foreign objects.
If any foreign objects are stuck in the tire, use a pair of needle nose pliers to remove them. Alignments and rotations should be carried out every 5,000 to 6,000 miles. This will help to extend the life of the tires and offer increased safety.
2. Change the Oil
A regular oil change is one of the most basic and vital steps in car maintenance. You must know what oil your car needs and how often it must be changed. If you drive for short distances, change your oil more often.
Always ensure you are using the correct viscosity oil and the right filter for your vehicle. Never skimp on quality when it comes to oil. Don’t buy bargain oil, it will only cost you more in the long run with potential engine damage.
3. Check the Fluids
Checking the engine oil helps protect the engine and results in prolonged engine life. Checking transmission fluid helps the car to shift and avoids a lot of repair costs. Antifreeze or coolant protects the engine from overheating and should be at the correct level.
Brake fluid helps the car to stop, and power steering fluid is necessary for steering. Filling the washer fluid according to the car handbook ensures clean windshields. Replace any of these fluids if they’re discolored or have particles, as this is a sign of a problem.
Regular checking of all these fluids is essential for the health of the car. Pay extra attention to these fluids and replace them as directed in the car handbook.
4. Paint Protection Film
These specialized films give a durable barrier between the paint of your vehicle and the elements. It guards your car vehicle exterior against scratches, dents, and fading caused by intense UV rays.
There are different types of paint protection films, so make sure to consult first with a professional installer. Here are different kinds of films:
PPF TPU
PPF TPU (Polypropylene/Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is a paint protection film that is applied to vulnerable areas of the vehicle, such as the hood, fenders, bumpers, side mirrors, and door edges. It not only preserves the luster of the car, but also prevents damage from scratches, road debris, and UV rays.
PVC PPF
PVC PPF (Polyvinyl Chloride Paint Protection Film) prevents the paint from fading, provides a barrier from minor scratches, and even helps to reduce contaminants from reaching your color. Cleaning and waxing are vital steps in preserving your vehicle’s finish and helping maintain the PPF which allows for extending its life.
It is crucial to inspect for any signs of damage, such as peeling or tearing. Paying attention to potential issues will help keep the PPF from sustaining any more damage.
PPF TPH
Preserving the factory color of the vehicle’s paint job helps the PPF last much longer. Frequent waxing of the PPF helps to protect the film from dirt and water. An easy way to clean the PPF is with a microfiber cloth and auto-wash liquid.
To achieve the latest paint protection technology, a ceramic coating helps seal and protect the PPF. Make sure to follow up with a TPH treatment to achieve the most impactful luster, helping to cut dirt and contaminants that may settle into the film.
If you’re considering using PPF on your car, it’s also worth looking into touch-up paint kits for minor repairs. These kits are typically designed to match the specific color and finish of your vehicle, ensuring a seamless repair job. Taking the time to touch up minor dents and scratches can help keep your car looking new and protect against rust and other damage.
5. Test the Lights
It is vital to ensure the bulbs are working and follow safety and lighting standards. Testing should include headlights, low and high beams, taillights, park lights, turn signals, and hazard lights.
It is crucial to check the aim of light and paths to make sure they are angled and free of dirt or other contamination. When testing brake and backup lights, you must have a helper to check the lights when the pedal is pressed.
6. Replace Windshield Wipers
Depending on the amount of usage and the climate, it is recommended to replace wipers every 6 months or no more than once a year. Wiper replacement is relatively easy and inexpensive and should not be put off.
To make sure you get exactly the right size and product, consult your vehicle handbook or speak to your local car dealership. Be sure to check for any worn-out parts before fitting the new ones. Always inspect the wipers for correct alignment and fitment once replaced.
7. Change Your Engine Air Filter
An engine air filter is a crucial component of a vehicle’s engine. Its main purpose is to keep airborne particles and dust from entering the engine and damaging it.
Over time the air filter will become clogged with dirt and debris. This restricts airflow to the engine and causes it to run inefficiently. Which then leads to increased gas consumption.
To prevent dirty air from entering the engine, replacing your engine air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or once a year is vital. If you do not have the necessary skills to do the job yourself, you should take your vehicle to a professional mechanic to change the air filter.
Best Vehicle Maintenance Tips for Every Car Owner
Vehicle maintenance is essential to enjoying your car for years to come. Follow these easy tips to ensure your vehicle is always in good condition. Check your oil, clean your vehicle, and see unusual sounds and smells.
Do you want to find more helpful info? Check out more of our guides on our blog today!