What do I need to know about car maintenance?

When you’re a car owner, it’s down to you to undertake basic car maintenance and upkeep that stops your vehicle from falling into a state of disrepair. When overlooked, small things can lead to significant problems with your car that only a mechanic can fix. It is not complicated, but it is essential and requires regular attention throughout your ownership of the vehicle.

Here are the key things you need to do to maintain your car and keep it in good condition.

1. Monitoring your engine oil and topping up is essential in car maintenance

Your engine oil should be between the dipstick’s minimum and maximum marks. If it gets too low, your engine can become damaged, and too much oil can also be bad for the engine.

2. Keep an eye on your tyres

Maintain your tyre pressure as often as possible. If the tyre pressure is too low, the car will use more fuel, and the tyres will wear out quicker. Overly high pressure can also be bad for the tyres.

3. Check your screen wash

You are legally required to keep fluid in your screenwash reservoir. This is particularly important in the colder months or if you are going on a long journey.

4. Servicing your car plays a crucial role in car maintenance

We recommend having your car serviced every 12,000 miles or so. Different cars have different needs, but don’t overlook the importance of regular servicing. We are a reliable car mechanic in Wollongong and can care for your servicing needs.

5. Watch your battery

Your car battery should ideally be replaced every three years. If you notice the engine is turning over more slowly or the battery light on your dashboard is flickering, it may be time to get that battery replaced.

6. Keep the coolant topped up is vital for car maintenance

Coolant is an important component of a healthy engine. If your coolant level runs low, the engine could overheat and become damaged. Check your car’s manual to understand what’s required to tend to the vehicle’s coolant needs.

7. Watch the exhaust

If you can get the car into a well-ventilated interior space, try starting the engine and checking for leaks. Look for smoke from the exhaust pipe and listen for unusual noises.

8. Mirrors

Always ensure your mirrors are correctly aligned. When they get dirty, wipe them and ensure you can see what’s in them at all times.

9. Brakes

Regularly test that the handbrake and footbrake work properly. Do this somewhere where there is no traffic to ensure no cause for concern.

10. Lights

Sometimes we don’t notice when lights are not working. Have someone stand outside the car while you activate all the lights (including indicators) to confirm they are all working correctly.

11. Windscreen wipers

Your wipers must be in good condition with no tears. The windscreen should also be free of chips – if you find any, get them repaired before a crack develops and you have to replace the entire windscreen.

Your local mechanic in Wollongong

We service Figtree, Shoalhaven Heads, Mount Pleasant, Wollongong, Greenwell Point, Kiama, Corrimal, Warilla, Albion Park Rail, Worrigee and surrounding areas.