Keeping your car in great shape doesn’t have to be a complicated task. With a little attention and regular check-ups, you can keep your vehicle running smoothly for years to come. Some maintenance tasks should be done frequently, while others are needed less often – but following your car’s service schedule is key to keeping everything in top condition.
You don’t need to be a mechanic to take good care of your car either. The most important thing is knowing what needs to be checked and when. By staying on top of routine maintenance, you’ll not only enjoy a smoother, more reliable drive but also help your car hold its value when it’s time to sell. Plus, while maintenance does come with some costs, it’s far more affordable than major repairs that can come from neglect.
To help you stay organised, we’ve put together a handy, monthly car maintenance checklist. It’s a simple way to keep track of what needs to be done – we won’t judge if you end up doing these every two to three months either, as long as they get done!
1. Check engine oil and other fluid levels
Engine oil is essential for keeping your engine running smoothly. Check the oil level using the dipstick and top up if needed. Also, inspect other vital fluids such as coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid to ensure they are at the correct levels. And if you need some tips for that, we’ve got just the guide to all things car oils and fluids.
2. Windscreen wipers
After you’ve done your wiper fluid, it’s time to check your wipers. Clear visibility is crucial for safe driving, and you don’t want to keep using wipers that are worn or cracked and squeaky. Inspect your wiper blades for signs of wear or cracking and replace them if necessary. Also, ensure your washer fluid is topped up to help keep your windscreen clean.
3.Tyre pressure and tread depth
Properly inflated tyres improve fuel efficiency, handling, and safety. Check tyre pressure using a gauge and adjust according to the manufacturer’s recommendations you can find in your manual. You can easily do this at a service station. While you’re at it, inspect the tread depth with a 20 cent coin to ensure you have sufficient grip on the road.
4. Check on your battery
A weak battery can leave you stranded unexpectedly if you don’t have the tools to jumpstart it. Check for any corrosion (greenish-blue build-up) on the terminals and ensure the battery is securely mounted. If your battery is over three years old, consider getting it tested to determine if it’s holding charge properly.
5. Lights and indicators
Faulty lights can be a safety hazard and may also lead to fines, and you might not even notice it when you’re on the road. Check that all headlights, brake lights, indicators, and interior lights are functioning correctly, and replace any blown bulbs immediately.
6. Clean and maintain your car’s exterior and interior
Dirt and grime can damage your car’s paintwork over time. Refreshing your car every three to five weeks by washing and cleaning it is a great way to keep it fresh and dirt-free. Cleaning your car also gives you the chance to spot any minor damage that might need attention. Need some help? Here’s a guide to washing your car, and our tricks to cleaning your car’s cabin.
7. Review Your registration and insurance
While not a mechanical or maintenance check, it’s a good habit to review your car’s registration and insurance status (and your licence too, why not?) monthly to ensure everything is up to date and avoid unexpected issues. It’s just nice to be on top of things sometimes.
By taking just a few minutes each month to go through these maintenance checks, you can keep your car running smoothly and avoid major breakdowns. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your vehicle but also ensures a safer driving experience for you and your passengers.
