Car Maintenance Checklist

Maintaining your vehicle may seem expensive and time consuming, yet overall a schedule of maintenance may save you money and time. A car maintenance checklist using manufacturers’ recommendations will help you remember each task and may help with budgeting maintenance expenses. Online maintenance applications might make it easier to keep up with your vehicle’s needs and provide other car maintenance tips.

Check Vehicle Fluids

Check your oil each time you fill up. Running low on oil or having dirty oil can reduce your engine’s life. This may lead to a costly repair or replacement. Check other fluids according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. These other fluids include brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid and engine coolant. 

Check Tires and Tire Pressure

Visually inspect your tires for wear or damage about once a month and before long trips. Check inflation also. Tires that are correctly inflated can save you money at the pump and they are safer to ride on.  

Tire Rotations

Tire rotations are essential to include on your vehicle maintenance checklist. Have your tires rotated every 6,000 miles so that they wear evenly.

Check Alignment

If you notice your vehicle is pulling to either side, or that tires are wearing unevenly, have the vehicle’s alignment checked. 

Air and Fuel Filters

Filters should be checked and replaced on a schedule. These filters can help improve gas mileage and reduce the chances of obstructed fuel lines. 

Vehicle Lights

Unless you check your headlights, brake lights and turn signals regularly, you might be unaware that these important safety devices aren’t working. 

Windshield Fluid and Wipers

Prevent the frustration of being out of windshield fluid just when you need it by checking regularly. Worn windshield wipers are less effective and can make it difficult to see during rain or snowstorms. Replacement time will vary depending on how frequently they are used.