Your Essential Car Maintenance Checklist

Responsible car owners have a car maintenance checklist that they follow to keep their vehicle in tip top shape. Proper maintenance can prevent small issues from becoming costly headaches. Your plan should include performing regular checks yourself alongside an annual general car service.

At Great Lakes Auto, we are committed to helping you make more informed decisions about basic car maintenance. The following five crucial maintenance items should be part of your safety checklist.

Regular Engine Oil Checks

Oil lubricates the moving parts in your engine to reduce the two main sources of damage: heat and friction. Regular oil checks are a great way of maintaining your car’s peak performance. Engine oil degrades over time, even when a vehicle has not been driven for long periods of time. It is recommended to change your oil every 3 months or 5000 kilometres.

Check Your Fluid Levels

The most common car fluids are the coolant and brake fluid. You should regularly check coolant levels and refill as soon as needed. Brake fluid will be checked as part of your regularly scheduled service. Your owner’s manual can inform you on the types of fluid and recommended maintenance schedule specific to your vehicle.

Check Your Tyre Pressure

As the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, the condition of your tyres is essential for the safety of your vehicle. Driving with too little or too much air pressure can affect your vehicle’s general handling, fuel efficiency and the longevity of your tyres.

Most service stations have tyre pressure gauges that are free to use. Check for a label inside the driver’s door or your vehicle’s owner manual to find your car’s ideal tyre pressure. It is recommended to check your car tyre pressure every three months.

Replace Windshield Wipers

Wipers blades are critical in ensuring you have clear visibility on the road. Degraded wipers can also scratch and damage your windshield. Over time, wiper blades inevitably undergo wear and tear that will cause them to crack, tear or split. Replace blades as soon as you notice signs of damage.

Replace Air Filters

Air filters are designed to trap debris and dust before they enter your car. These contaminants can build up over time, limiting the quantity of air flowing into your engine. An old filter can affect performance, decrease the cabin’s air quality and increase fuel consumption. Check your vehicle’s maintenance schedule for instructions on replacing air filters.

Schedule Professional Maintenance

Following basic car maintenance can ensure longer, peak vehicle performance. Performing regular checks alongside a periodic professional servicing can prevent major, costly issues from occurring by identifying problems early. Trust the professionals at Great Lakes Auto Centre for your next car service. Call (02) 6590 1375 or fill out our contact form to get expert advice from our friendly team today.