Maintenance tasks for a better drive

Maintaining a car is essential for ensuring both performance and safety, yet many drivers overlook basic maintenance tasks. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your vehicle, but can also prevent costly repairs and unexpected breakdowns. Here, we’ll go through essential car maintenance tips that every driver should know.

Change oil to check wear and tear

Oil is the lifeblood of your engine, lubricating its moving parts and reducing wear and tear. Check your car’s manual for recommended oil change intervals; generally, it’s every 5,000 to 10,000 km for most cars using conventional oil. If you use synthetic oil, the intervals can be longer, but it’s always a good idea to stick with your manufacturer’s guidance.

Clean the clogged Air filters

Your car’s air filter prevents dirt, debris and contaminants from entering the engine. Over time, it becomes clogged, which can reduce your vehicle’s performance and fuel efficiency. A clean air filter improves engine performance, so it’s wise to check it every 10,000 km or as per your manual’s recommendation.

Rotate tyres for better traction

Maintaining proper tyre pressure is vital for safe driving and optimal fuel efficiency. Check your tyre pressure monthly. Regular tyre rotation, typically every 5,000 km, also helps promote even wear, extends tyre life and ensures better traction and handling.

Clean corroded battery terminals

A healthy battery is essential for starting your vehicle and powering its electrical components. Battery terminals can corrode over time, leading to poor electrical connections and difficulty in starting the engine. Clean the terminals with a wire brush and a solution of baking soda and water to remove corrosion. Also, have your battery tested at least once a year.

Replace squeaking wiper blades

Good visibility is crucial for safe driving. Wiper blades deteriorate over time due to exposure to sunlight, rain and dust and should be replaced every 6 to 12 months. If you notice streaking or squeaking, it’s time for new blades.

Get brakes inspected

Brakes are perhaps the most important safety feature of your vehicle. Listen for unusual sounds, such as squeaking or grinding, which can indicate worn brake pads or other issues. If you notice any noise, or if braking feels less responsive than usual, have your brakes inspected by a professional as soon as possible. Typically, brake pads need to be replaced every 20,000 km to 40,000 km, depending on your driving style and vehicle type.

Overheated radiator & engine damage

Your car’s cooling system prevents the engine from overheating by circulating coolant throughout the engine. Low coolant levels or a malfunctioning radiator can lead to overheating, which can cause serious engine damage. Check the coolant level regularly and top it up with a 50/50 mixture of coolant and water, if needed.

Proper serpentine belt critical

The timing belt and serpentine belt are critical components of your engine. The timing belt helps synchronise the engine’s valves and pistons, while the serpentine belt powers components like the alternator and air- conditioning. Over time, these belts can wear out or snap, potentially leading to severe engine damage. Typically, timing belts are replaced every 60,000 km to 1,00,000 km, while serpentine belts may need to be replaced every 40,000-70,000 km.

Dirty spark plugs and misfires

Spark plugs ignite the fuel-air mixture in your engine, creating the explosion that powers your vehicle. Worn or dirty spark plugs can lead to engine misfires, rough idling, and reduced fuel efficiency. Replacing spark plugs as recommended by your manual is a simple yet effective way to maintain engine performance and fuel economy.

Wash and wax regularly

Washing and waxing may seem purely cosmetic, but they’re essential for preserving your car’s paint and bodywork. Dirt, road salt, and other contaminants can accumulate and cause the paint to fade or chip over time. Washing your car regularly and applying a protective wax coating every few months help protect against these elements. Not only does this make your car look great, it also helps maintain the resale value.

Regular car maintenance may seem time-consuming, but it’s an investment that pays off in reliability, safety and savings. Following these basic maintenance tips ensures that your vehicle runs smoothly and minimises the risk of costly repairs. The effort you put into maintaining your vehicle will ultimately help keep you safe on the road and extend your car’s lifespan. Happy motoring!