Car Maintenance Tips You Can Do Yourself

 A car repair shop can fix the more serious problems that arise, but there are many things you can do to maintain your vehicle. Most of these tasks require little time and money and will extend the life of your car or truck.

Every owner's manual has a maintenance schedule that lists the recommended intervals for items like engine oil, air filters, and even belts and hoses. This is a good guide for ensuring that your car maintenance is always in top condition, but it's also important to keep an eye out for signs of potential trouble.

If you notice a loss in smoothness when driving, for instance, your shocks or struts may be wearing out. A mechanic can inspect these components to ensure that your ride remains comfortable and safe.

An oil change is the easiest way to check your fluid levels, but you should also look at the engine coolant level and air filter. The coolant helps the engine operate at its peak temperature, which is required for proper fuel combustion and prevention of corrosive deposits on internal parts. If your coolant is low, it's a good idea to flush it and replace it with fresh, new antifreeze.

Your cabin air filter keeps debris out of the cabin, but it should be replaced at least once a year as well. A clean filter can also improve your gas mileage by allowing the engine to operate more efficiently.

Spark plugs, plug wires and coils can usually last up to 100,000 miles, but it's a good idea to have these components checked starting at 30,000 miles or so. The spark plugs can wear out faster if they are subject to excessive heat from hot running engines and driving over rough roads.

Tires can lose air pressure quickly when the temperature changes, so it's a good idea to check the air pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer's recommendation. If your car has a tire pressure monitor system, it will likely warn you when the pressure is low.

The brakes and steering system of your vehicle should be lubricated periodically, and the chassis and suspension systems should be inspected as well. The chassis lubrication can be done at the same time as your oil change, or you can purchase chassis lube from an auto parts store.

Be sure to carry a set of basic automotive tools in your trunk, including a spare tire and jack. These tools will come in handy if you're ever stuck in mud or snow. Be careful not to rock the car from side to side too hard when you're trying to free it. This puts unnecessary stress on transmissions, clutches and differentials, and can damage expensive components.