Preventive vehicle maintenance: 10 basic points to always check

Preventive vehicle maintenance: 10 basic points to always check

Preventive vehicle maintenance is the process of regularly inspecting and maintaining the various parts of a vehicle to ensure that it is always in good working condition. By doing this, car owners can avoid costly repairs and breakdowns, extend the life of their vehicle, and keep it running smoothly.

Here are 10 basic points that car owners should always check as part of their preventive maintenance routine:

1. Oil and oil filter:

The oil is the lifeblood of the engine, and it needs to be changed at regular intervals to keep the engine running smoothly. Car owners should check the oil level on a regular basis, and change the oil and oil filter according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

2. Tires:

The tires are one of the most important parts of the vehicle, and they need to be inspected regularly to ensure that they are in good condition. Car owners should check the tire pressure, tread depth, and overall condition of the tires on a regular basis, and have them rotated and balanced as needed.

3. Brakes:

The brakes are another critical component of the vehicle, and they need to be inspected and maintained on a regular basis to ensure that they are working properly. Car owners should have the brakes checked by a professional at least once a year, and have the brake pads and rotors replaced as needed.

4. Battery:

The battery is responsible for starting the engine, and it needs to be in good condition to do its job. Car owners should check the battery terminals for corrosion and clean them if necessary, and have the battery checked and replaced as needed.

5. Air filters:

The air filters are responsible for keeping dust and debris out of the engine, and they need to be replaced on a regular basis to ensure that the engine is running at its best. Car owners should check the air filter and replace it as needed according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

6. Belts and hoses:

The belts and hoses are responsible for powering the various components of the vehicle, and they need to be in good condition to do their job. Car owners should check the belts and hoses on a regular basis for signs of wear and tear, and have them replaced as needed.

7. Lights:

The lights are important for safety on the road, and they need to be in good working order at all times. Car owners should check the headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals on a regular basis, and replace any bulbs that are burned out.

8. Wipers:

The windshield wipers are responsible for keeping the windshield clear and clean, and they need to be in good condition to do their job. Car owners should check the wiper blades on a regular basis, and replace them as needed.

9. Fluid levels: 

The various fluids in the vehicle, such as the coolant, transmission fluid, and brake fluid, need to be checked on a regular basis to ensure that they are at the proper levels. Car owners should check the fluid levels on a regular basis and top them off as needed.

10. Suspension and steering:

 The suspension and steering are responsible for providing a smooth and comfortable ride, and they need to be in good condition to do their job. Car owners should have the suspension and steering checked on a regular basis, and have any repairs made as needed.

By regularly checking these 10 basic points as part of their preventive maintenance routine, car owners can keep their vehicles running smoothly and avoid costly repairs and breakdowns. It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for maintenance intervals and to have any repairs made by a professional mechanic. With regular maintenance, a vehicle can provide reliable transportation for many years.