Basic car maintenance includes oil and filter change, coolant and fluid exchange, air filter change, tire rotation, an inspection of tire pressure and tread depth, and more. They are regular preventive short-term, long-term, and seasonal maintenance recommended by industry-standard guidelines. Basic car maintenance helps extend the life of your vehicle, prevents costly repairs and replacements, and keeps you and your passengers safe on the road.

Car maintenance tips for winter generally focus on preventing a breakdown in freezing temperatures and keeping your tires in good condition to avoid a fatal accident on the road. This includes switching to winter tires and frequently checking tread wear, checking the car’s oil, testing windshield wipers, heaters, the radiator, and making sure the car’s battery is in good condition.

While you certainly can perform basic inspections, more complex maintenance is best left in the hands of a skilled professional. A car’s components are intricately connected, and you risk damaging parts with incorrect maintenance.

One of the best ways to take care of your car is to follow a regular maintenance schedule. This not only helps mechanics identify minor issues before they become a bigger problem, keeping a regular maintenance history benefits you if you decide to sell your car in the future. Inbetween routine maintenance services, practice good driving habits by avoiding quick acceleration and sudden braking, keep your car clean, inspect your filters, and check fluid levels.

The key to increasing the lifespan of your car is to keep it well-maintained and looked after. Schedule service as soon as possible when you notice a problem, don’t neglect your tires, fill the gas tank before it gets too low, check the air filter and fluids, and keep your vehicle clean.