Whether the car you drive is brand new or a decade old, the right maintenance can help it run longer and more reliably. All vehicles need regular car maintenance to run their best and avoid problems, and having your vehicle thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic is one of the best ways to avoid breakdowns and dangerous situations.
Even if you are required to have your vehicle inspected, that may not be enough to ensure trouble-free operation. Those legally mandated inspections are primarily about safety, and your mechanic may not check things like the condition of the engine oil or the level of coolant in the radiator.
That is why it is so important to have the car you drive checked out at least once a year, and not just at the annual inspection. Here are a few critical things that should be checked at least once a year.
The condition of the engine oil
Hopefully you are checking your oil level at least once a month, but it is also important to look at the oil itself. Dissolved particles in the oil or a burnt smell could be early warning signs of engine damage.
The transmission fluid
The color and smell of the transmission fluid should be checked at least once a year. If the fluid is brown or black, the transmission could be in need of repair. A failing transmission could also cause the transmission fluid to smell burnt.
Wear and tear on tires
Your mechanic will check the depth of the tire tread during the annual safety inspection, but it is just as important to see how the tires are wearing. All four tires should show even wear —uneven wear could mean you need a front-end alignment.
The wiper blades
It is easy to overlook seemingly simple things like the wiper blades, but these vital pieces of equipment should be inspected at least once a year. Worn wiper blades will not clean your windshield as well as they should, and that could reduce your visibility in ice and snow.
The aim of the headlights
Over time the headlights can get out of sync and cause problems with nighttime visibility. Your mechanic will make sure your headlights are working during the annual safety inspection, but it is just as important to test their aim and make any unnecessary adjustments.
Belts and hoses
The failure of a belt or hose could leave you stranded by the side of the road. Your annual inspection should include a thorough check off all belts and hoses, and any that look questionable should be replaced tight away.
Coolant level and condition
You might not give much thought to your antifreeze, but it has a vital role to play. Have your mechanic look at the coolant and assess its condition. The presence of metal flakes or a discolored appearance could mean problems with your radiator.
Battery age and condition
All batteries have a shelf life, and if yours is approaching its end date it may be time to buy a new one. Check the sticker on your car battery to see when it was bought and how much life it has left. Your mechanic can also check the state of your battery and let you know if you will soon be needing a new one.
Keeping your car in perfect running order is not always easy, but the right car maintenance can make a big difference. Having your car checked out on an annual basis is one of the best ways to make sure the vehicle will be there when you need it. Contact us for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should I have my car’s engine oil checked?
It’s best to check your engine oil at least once a month. Regular checks ensure the oil isn’t contaminated with particles or has a burnt smell, which could indicate engine damage. When the oil level is low or appears dirty, it’s time for a change. Frequent checks help you avoid bigger issues down the road like overheating or engine wear, especially in older cars.
2. What are the signs that my transmission fluid needs to be changed?
If your transmission fluid appears brown or black instead of its typical pinkish hue, it’s time to get it checked. Burnt-smelling transmission fluid is another red flag that your transmission could be in trouble. Without proper fluid, your transmission might not shift smoothly, leading to costly repairs. Checking fluid annually helps catch early issues and keeps your transmission running smoothly.
3. How can I tell if my tires are wearing unevenly?
Uneven tire wear can be a sign of poor alignment or suspension issues. To check, inspect the tread on all four tires. If one side is more worn than the other, or the tires show different levels of wear, you may need a front-end alignment. Tires wearing unevenly can reduce traction and increase stopping distances, which is a major safety concern. Keeping your tires properly aligned and balanced can also save on fuel costs.
4. Why is it important to replace my windshield wiper blades regularly?
Worn wiper blades can severely impact visibility, especially in rain, snow, or ice. If your blades leave streaks, skip across the windshield, or don’t clear water effectively, it’s time for new ones. It’s a small cost for a major safety upgrade. Ideally, wiper blades should be replaced once a year, particularly before winter, to ensure you can drive safely in bad weather.
5. How can I check if my headlights are aligned correctly?
Misaligned headlights can reduce your ability to see at night and may even blind oncoming drivers. To check their alignment, park your car 25 feet from a wall and turn on the headlights. The light beams should hit the wall evenly. If they’re too high or low, adjusting them is essential for night time driving safety.
6. What are the warning signs of a failing belt or hose in my car?
Cracks, fraying, or visible wear on belts are clear signs they’re near the end of their life. For hoses, look for bulges, leaks, or spongy spots. If a belt or hose fails while driving, it can leave you stranded. That’s why having them checked annually or during routine maintenance is critical. Replacing these parts before they break can prevent unexpected breakdowns.
7. How do I know when my coolant needs to be changed?
Coolant plays a vital role in regulating your engine’s temperature. If your coolant appears discolored or contains metal flakes, it may signal problems with your radiator or other engine components. Regularly checking coolant levels and condition is crucial to prevent your engine from overheating, especially during hot weather or long trips.
8. How often should I replace my car battery?
Most car batteries last between 3 to 5 years. However, extreme temperatures and frequent short trips can shorten battery life. Check the sticker on your battery for its age and have it tested annually by a mechanic. A weak battery can leave you stranded, and it’s easier to replace it before it dies completely.
9. Why is regular car maintenance essential for older vehicles?
As vehicles age, components like belts, hoses, and batteries wear out faster. Older cars are more susceptible to leaks and mechanical issues, which can quickly escalate if not addressed. Regular inspections, oil changes, and fluid top-ups help keep your older vehicle running smoothly, avoiding costly repairs and breakdowns.
10. How does a front-end alignment improve my car’s performance?
A front-end alignment ensures your wheels are properly aligned, improving handling, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity. Misaligned wheels cause uneven tire wear and can make steering feel loose or cause the car to drift to one side. Regular alignments are a key part of car maintenance, helping you save on fuel and tires while keeping your vehicle safer on the road.
