Car Maintenance Tips You Can Start Using Right Now

Ever wonder why your car sometimes feels sluggish or why a small repair bill pops up out of nowhere? Most of the time it’s something you could have prevented with a quick check. Below are the everyday actions that make a big difference without costing a fortune.

Every‑Month Checks You Can Do

Tire pressure. Grab a cheap gauge and check all four tires once a month. Under‑inflated tires wear faster, lower fuel economy, and can overheat. Inflate to the level shown on the driver‑side door sticker.

Oil level. Pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, re‑insert and read. If it’s low, top up with the oil grade your owner’s manual recommends. A few ounces short can cause engine wear over time.

Brake fluid. Open the reservoir – the fluid should be between the "min" and "max" marks and clear, not dark. If it looks dirty, a flush at a shop can restore proper braking performance.

Battery terminals. Look for corrosion (white powder) on the posts. A quick brush with a baking‑soda paste and a tight clamp can stop a dead battery surprise.

Lights. Flip on headlights, brake lights, and turn signals. Replace any dim or burnt‑out bulbs right away – they’re cheap and keep you safe.

Seasonal Maintenance You Can’t Skip

Air filter. In spring and autumn, pull the cabin and engine air filters out. If they look gray or clogged, replace them. A clean filter improves fuel efficiency and protects the engine.

Coolant. When the weather drops below 5°C, check the coolant level and condition. Mix 50/50 antifreeze and water if it’s low – this prevents the radiator from freezing and cracking.

Wiper blades. Summer storms can wear blades fast. If you see streaks or squeaks, swap them out. A fresh blade gives clear vision and avoids windshield damage.

Suspension. Rough roads or heavy loads can damage shocks. Push down on the front corner; if it bounces more than once, the shocks likely need replacement.

Wheel alignment. After hitting a pothole, notice uneven tire wear or the car pulling to one side? A quick alignment check at a garage can save you new tires later.

Putting these checks into a simple calendar helps you stay on top of things. For example, mark the first Saturday of each month for tire pressure and oil, and set a reminder in March, June, September and December for the seasonal items.

Remember, you don’t need a mechanic for every task. A few basic tools – a socket set, a torque wrench, and a flashlight – let you handle most of the routine work yourself. If a job feels beyond your comfort zone, a quick call to Northwich Tyres Centre can get professional help without breaking the bank.

Doing a little bit now means fewer breakdowns later, better fuel mileage, and a car that feels nicer to drive. Start with one check this week and add another next week – before you know it, you’ll have a solid maintenance habit that keeps your vehicle happy for years.