Essential Tips for Maintaining Your Car

Your car is more than just a means of transportation – it’s an investment that requires proper care and maintenance to ensure its longevity and reliability. Every driver should have a simple car maintenance checklist that they go through regularly to ensure their car stays in good condition. 

Completing some basic car maintenance every once in a while will go a long way toward keeping you safe on the road and saving you money on unnecessary repairs in the future.

Regularly Check and Change Engine Oil

One of the most important car maintenance tips is to keep on top of oil changes. It is recommended to change your oil every three months or after approximately 5000 kilometres driven. 

However, as oil is the lifeblood of your car’s engine, you should make it a habit to do an engine oil check monthly. Running low on oil can cause serious damage to your engine and cause your engine to stall, so the last thing you want is an undetected oil leak.

The team at Great Lakes Auto Centre is always happy to help with oil changes, ensuring your engine stays well-lubricated and protected.

Maintaining proper Tyre Pressure

Car tyre pressure plays a significant role in your car’s performance, fuel efficiency and safety. Underinflated or overinflated tyres can lead to uneven wear, poor handling and even tyre blowouts in extreme cases. 

You can check your tyre pressure for free at most service stations, which you should do at least once every few months and before any long trips. Consult your owner’s manual or the sticker inside the driver’s door for the correct tyre pressure for your vehicle.

Inspect and Replace Wiper Blades

Your windshield wipers are essential for maintaining visibility during poor weather. It’s important to remember that wiper blades wear out and become less effective over time. Inspect them regularly by looking for cracks, tears, or uneven wear and replace them at least once a year (preferably before winter) or sooner if they are not cleaning the windshield properly.

Regularly Check and Maintain Fluid Levels

Besides engine oil, your car relies on various fluids to function correctly. Regularly inspect and top up your car fluids, including coolant, brake fluid etc as necessary. Your owner’s manual should include information on a recommended schedule and the type of fluids required for your vehicle. 

Replace Air Filters

Your car’s air filters prevent dust, debris and other contaminants from entering your engine and cabin. Dirty air filters can reduce engine performance, fuel efficiency, and the quality of the air you breathe inside your car. Make sure to replace your engine air filter and cabin air filter according to your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule. Don’t hesitate to book your next service appointment and ensure your car stays in optimal condition.

Schedule Regular Maintenance and Inspections

Regular maintenance and inspections can help catch minor issues before they become significant problems. Each car has its own recommended schedule for a general car service, but it will usually fall between six and twelve months. 

Whether you are in need of a routine service, brake inspections or major repairs, the experienced technicians at Great Lakes Auto Centre will help keep your car running at its best. Simply get in touch using our online form or give our team a call on (02) 6590 1375 to get started.