Owning a car isn’t just about filling up the petrol and hitting the road – it also means taking care of it. Regular servicing, checking fluids, caring for your tyres, maintaining the battery, and keeping an eye on the brakes will all keep your vehicle safe and running smoothly. The following essential tips cover these basics to help you keep your car in top shape and avoid unexpected breakdowns.
Regular Servicing: The Foundation of Car Health
Follow your car’s recommended service schedule (for many cars, that’s every 6–12 months or a certain number of kilometres). Regular servicing – including oil changes and routine inspections – prevents small issues from turning into big problems. It also keeps your car running efficiently and maintains its warranty and resale value.
Fluid Checks: Oil, Coolant and Brake Fluid
Check your car’s key fluids frequently: engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid. Oil should be between the dipstick markers and changed if it’s dirty or due for replacement. The coolant level in the reservoir should be at the correct mark when the engine is cold – low coolant can cause overheating. Brake fluid must be within the marked range; if it’s dark or low, it may need to be topped up or replaced (it’s generally replaced every couple of years). Keeping fluids at the right levels ensures your engine stays lubricated, your brakes work properly, and your car doesn’t overheat.
Tyre Care and Wheel Alignment
Keep your tyres in good condition for safety and performance. Check tyre pressure monthly (including the spare tyre) and inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended levels – this improves fuel economy and tyre life. Also inspect the tread: if it’s worn close to the legal minimum (around 1.5 mm depth), replace the tyres to maintain proper grip. Uneven tread wear or the car pulling to one side can be a sign of poor wheel alignment. Getting the alignment adjusted will help the tyres wear evenly and keep your vehicle tracking straight. Also, rotating your tyres periodically (swapping front and rear) helps them wear evenly and last longer.
Battery Maintenance
Check that the battery terminals are clean and securely connected. A healthy battery typically lasts 3–5 years, so if your engine cranks slowly or your lights are dimming, the battery may be weak. Have it tested and replace it if needed to avoid getting stranded. Keeping the terminals corrosion-free and ensuring the charging system (alternator) is working properly will help your battery last longer.
Brake System Checks
Pay attention to your brakes. If you hear a squealing noise when braking, the brake pads may be worn and need replacing soon – a grinding sound means they’re overdue and you should service the brakes immediately. Also notice how the brake pedal feels: if it’s soft or spongy, or if the car vibrates when you brake, get the brake system checked. Regular brake inspections ensure the pads, rotors, and brake fluid are in good condition so you can stop safely every time.
Warning Signs to Watch Out For
Dashboard Warning Lights: Don’t ignore warning lights on your dash (engine, oil, battery, etc.). They indicate something needs attention – for example, an oil or battery light could mean a low level or a fault. Get any persistent warning light checked promptly.
Strange Noises or Vibrations: Unusual sounds or shudders can signal trouble. A thumping tyre noise might mean a tyre issue, and a vibration in the steering could indicate unbalanced wheels or alignment problems. If your car sounds or feels abnormal, have it looked at.
Leaks or Burning Smells: Any fluid leak (oil, coolant, brake fluid) under your car should be investigated. Similarly, a strong burning smell (like oil or electrical wiring) is a red flag that something isn’t right. Address leaks or smells quickly to prevent bigger problems.
The Importance of Professional Servicing
Nothing replaces the value of professional servicing by a qualified mechanic. Experienced mechanics have the training and equipment to catch issues you might miss and fix them correctly, helping you avoid costly failures down the road. Keeping up with professional logbook services also preserves your warranty and ensures all safety-critical components are properly maintained. By partnering with a trusted auto service – such as Braeside Auto Repairs – you can rest assured your vehicle receives top-notch care and stays in peak condition for the long run. In the end, a little effort in maintenance goes a long way towards ensuring a reliable, safe vehicle and an enjoyable driving experience.