Understandably, new drivers are excited about their first car. But having a car is also a responsibility, as many parents remind their kids who are just beginning to drive.
Many people don’t take the time to go through their car’s maintenance until it gives them problems, which can be expensive. The cost of having your engine rebuilt is much more than what you would have spent if you had just taken care of the problem earlier on. This article will look at some crucial reminders for new drivers about basic car maintenance to avoid costly repairs and maintain the longevity of their vehicles.
Check the oil level
One of the most important things you can do to take care of your car is to check the oil level frequently. If you don’t have enough oil, your engine will overheat and could be seriously damaged. Here’s how to do it:
- Find the oil dipstick. It will usually be located near the engine, and it will look like a long metal or plastic stick.
- Pull out the dipstick and wipe it off with a cloth or paper towel.
- Reinsert the dipstick into the oil reservoir and pull it back out.
- Check the oil level by looking at the markings on the dipstick. The oil should be between the “LOW” and “HIGH” level markers.
If the oil level is too low, you need to add more oil. Add it a little bit at a time – don’t overfill the reservoir – and recheck the dipstick until the oil reaches the proper levels.
Pay attention to the check engine light
When the check engine light comes on, it’s important to take your car to a mechanic that offers a check engine services to get it looked over. There could be several problems causing the light to come on, and some of them could be serious. So it’s best not to ignore the light and take your car in for a check-up.
The mechanic will check the engine for problems and try to determine what’s causing the check engine light to come on. Sometimes it’s as simple as replacing an oxygen sensor or a spark plug, but other times it could be something more serious.
It’s better to spend a few hundred dollars getting the check engine light looked at than it is to have your car’s engine completely overhauled or replaced.
Check the tire pressure
It’s important to check the tire pressure on your car because if they’re not inflated properly, it can make the car harder to drive and could even lead to an accident. Furthermore, overinflated tires can quickly wear down the tread and need replacement. Here’s how to check your tire pressure:
Locate the air reservoir, which is usually near the car’s hood. Open it up and put in a few air nozzles until you hear a hissing sound coming from them, which means the reservoir is full of air.
Remove the hose and check the pressure on your tires. You can also use a tire pressure gauge if you have one available.
Check fluid levels
It’s important to check the fluid levels in your car regularly, as doing so can help you avoid costly repairs. Here are the fluids you should check:
- Oil – checking the oil level is one of the most important things you can do to take care of your car, as it helps to keep the engine running smoothly.
- Coolant – if your car’s coolant level is too low, it could cause the engine to overheat.
- Windshield washer fluid – if you run out of windshield washer fluid, you won’t be able to clean your windshield, which could lead to decreased visibility while driving.
- Brake fluid – if your brake fluid level is low, your brakes could start to malfunction.
All these things are important to pay attention to while you’re driving your car. If you don’t want the car’s engine, brakes, or tires to require expensive repairs later on, it’s best to take care of them by checking fluid levels regularly and getting check engine services when necessary.
Get a tune-up
A tune-up is an important part of car maintenance, and it’s something that all drivers should consider getting regularly. A tune-up can help your car run more smoothly and efficiently, and it can also help to extend the life of your vehicle.
During a tune-up, a mechanic will check all the major systems in your car and make sure they’re working properly. They’ll also replace any worn-out parts or fluids, and they’ll adjust the engine and other components as necessary. This can help to improve your car’s gas mileage and performance. All of this goes towards keeping your car running smoothly and within a safe operating condition.
All of these are important things to keep in mind when it comes to taking care of your car. By following these simple reminders, you can help to avoid costly repairs and keep your car running smoothly for years to come.
