What Car Routine Checks Entail

Routine checks are essential for maintaining your vehicle’s performance, safety, and longevity. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or a car owner who prefers to avoid surprises, conducting periodic maintenance is crucial to prevent major breakdowns and costly repairs. In this blog, we’ll break down the key routine checks you should perform to ensure your car runs smoothly.

1. Oil and Fluid Levels

One of the most important aspects of car maintenance is monitoring and changing your engine oil. Regular oil changes ensure that your engine is properly lubricated, reducing wear and tear. Besides engine oil, you should also check:

• Transmission fluid
• Coolant/Antifreeze levels
• Brake fluid
• Power steering fluid
• Windshield washer fluid

Each fluid has a specific role in keeping various parts of your vehicle functioning, and low levels can result in significant issues. Check fluid levels monthly or as recommended in your vehicle’s owner manual.

2. Tire Condition and Pressure

Tires are your car’s direct point of contact with the road, so maintaining them is critical for safety and performance. Regularly inspect:

• Tire tread depth to ensure it’s not worn down.
• Tire pressure using a gauge. Low or uneven tire pressure can affect fuel efficiency and increase wear on your tires.
• Wheel alignment and balancing, which can help prevent uneven tire wear and improve handling.

Ideally, tire checks should be performed every month, especially before long trips.

3. Brakes

Your car’s braking system is one of its most crucial safety features. Perform periodic checks to ensure:

• Brake pads have enough thickness left. Worn brake pads can reduce braking efficiency and damage rotors.
• Brake fluid levels are sufficient, as low levels can affect braking power.
• Brake response, listening for unusual sounds such as squeaking or grinding, which may indicate worn pads or other issues.

Annual brake inspections by a professional are recommended, but you should also do regular visual checks.

4. Battery Health

A dead car battery can leave you stranded, so it’s vital to check its health periodically:

• Battery terminals should be clean, with no corrosion.
• Voltage should be measured using a voltmeter; most car batteries should have 12.4 to 12.7 volts when fully charged.
• Signs of wear or leakage, as these indicate it’s time for a replacement.

Most car batteries last 3 to 5 years, but checking them regularly can prevent inconvenient failures.

5. Lights and Signals

Properly functioning lights and signals are essential for visibility and communication on the road. Periodically inspect:

• Headlights for brightness and alignment.
• Brake lights, turn signals, and reverse lights to ensure all are functioning.
• Dashboard warning lights, which can alert you to issues with your engine, battery, or other critical systems.

Replace bulbs immediately when they burn out, and check your lights at least once a month.

6. Belts and Hoses

Car Belts and hoses may not be visible at first glance, but they play an essential role in your car’s functionality:

• Serpentine belt drives critical engine components like the alternator and air conditioning. Inspect it for cracks or fraying.
• Radiator hoses transport coolant between the engine and the radiator. Check for leaks, swelling, or soft spots.

A visual inspection every few months can help prevent a sudden failure.

7. Air Filters

The air filters in your vehicle—both for the engine and cabin—play an important role in performance and comfort:

• Engine air filter ensures clean air enters your engine, promoting efficient fuel combustion.
• Cabin air filter ensures the air you breathe inside your car is free from dust, pollen, and pollutants.

Replace filters as recommended, usually every 12,000 to 15,000 miles.

8. Wiper Blades

Clear visibility is essential, especially during rainy or snowy weather. Check:

• Wiper blade condition for cracks or stiffness. Worn blades won’t clear the windshield properly.
• Windshield washer fluid, which should be topped off regularly.

Replace wiper blades every 6 to 12 months or if they begin streaking.

9. Exhaust System

The exhaust system ensures that gases produced by your engine are safely removed from your vehicle. Inspect:

• Exhaust pipes for rust or damage.
• Muffler for holes or leaks.
• Unusual sounds, like hissing or rattling, which may indicate an issue.

A professional inspection every 1 to 2 years is recommended to catch any hidden problems.

Conducting car routine checks is a proactive approach to vehicle maintenance. By taking the time to inspect your car regularly, you can avoid major repairs, keep your vehicle safe, and extend its lifespan. Whether it’s checking fluid levels or inspecting your tires, small actions can save you from future headaches on the road. Make a habit of performing these checks to ensure your car stays in peak condition.