Follow these simple vehicle maintenance tips to help improve performance, extend the life of your car, and reduce the chance of unexpected repairs.
Check the transmission fluid with the engine running and the vehicle in Park. If it’s low, add the transmission fluid type recommended in your owner’s manual or listed on the dipstick. For best performance, replace the fluid about every 24,000 miles or every two years.
Make sure the battery is secure, and the cable connections are clean, tight, and free of corrosion. If your battery is more than three years old, have it tested or consider replacing it.
Look for cracks, fraying, or signs of wear. Replace V-belts about every 36,000 miles and serpentine belts around 50,000 miles, or follow the replacement schedule in your owner’s manual. Replacing worn belts on time can help prevent engine damage.
Have your brake system, including the brake pads and brake fluid, inspected about every other oil change to help keep your vehicle stopping safely.
Replace the cabin air filter once a year, or more often if you drive in dusty or polluted areas.
Some newer vehicles don’t require chassis lubrication, but many replacement steering and suspension parts still do. Follow your manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations.
If the check engine light comes on and stays on, have your vehicle inspected soon. If the light is flashing, stop driving as soon as it is safe and have your vehicle checked immediately to help prevent engine damage.
Check the coolant level in the overflow reservoir. Never remove the radiator cap while the engine is hot. If needed, add the recommended 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and distilled water.
Inspect the engine air filter every year and replace it if it’s dirty. You may need to replace it sooner if you often drive on dusty roads.
Check the oil level regularly with the engine turned off. Change the oil and filter every 3,000 miles or three months, or follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.
If you hear unusual noises or notice damage, have your exhaust system inspected for leaks, broken hangers, or other problems as soon as possible.
On older carbureted vehicles, replace the fuel filter once a year. Fuel-injected vehicles typically need a new fuel filter about every 24,000 miles or two years.
Check hoses for cracks, leaks, swelling, or soft spots. Replace worn hoses about every four years or sooner if needed.
Replace any burned-out bulbs right away to help keep your vehicle safe and visible.
Check the power steering fluid after the engine has warmed up. Add the recommended fluid if it’s low. If the level keeps dropping, have the system checked for leaks.
Inspect your shocks and struts for leaks, damage, or loose parts. Have them checked by a professional at least once a year and replace them if they are worn.
Check your tire pressure regularly, including the spare tire. Inflate tires to the recommended pressure and inspect them for uneven wear, cuts, or damage. Replace worn tires to help improve safety.
Check the washer fluid every few fill-ups and refill it with windshield washer fluid when needed. Do not use plain water.
Replace your wiper blades when they leave streaks, skip across the windshield, or no longer clear the glass properly.