Save Money and Keep Your Car
DIY Car Maintenance Tips
Maintaining your car doesn’t always have to involve a trip to your mechanic. There are many simple tasks you can do yourself to keep your vehicle running smoothly and avoid unnecessary repair costs. Not only will this save you money, but it will also help you understand your car better.
Here are some easy DIY car maintenance tips to keep your vehicle in great condition, save you money in the long run and help you learn more about your car.
1. Check Your Fluids Regularly
Keeping your car’s fluids at the correct levels is essential for smooth operation. This includes oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid.
• How to do it: Open the hood and locate the dipsticks or reservoirs for each fluid. Check oil levels using the dipstick, and top up the coolant, brake fluid, and washer fluid if necessary.
• How often to do it: Check your oil once a month, and other fluids at least every 2-3 months.
• Tip: If you notice your coolant or brake fluid running low too often, this may indicate a leak or other issue—get it checked out by a professional.
2. Change Your Wiper Blades
Worn-out wiper blades can reduce visibility, especially during winter when rain is more common. Replacing them yourself is quick and easy.
• How to do it: Lift the wiper arms away from the front window and release the old blade from the arm – the release will vary depending on the make and model of your car. Clip the new blade into place and lower the arm carefully back onto the glass.
• How often to do it: It’s best to change your wiper blades every 6-12 months, or sooner if you notice streaking when using your wipers.
• Tip: Look for rubber blades that are UV-resistant for longevity under Australia’s harsh sun.
3. Check and Maintain Tyre Pressure
Under-inflated tyres reduce fuel efficiency and tyre longevity. Checking tyre pressure regularly ensures better handling, fuel savings, and ensures your tyres last longer.
• How to do it: Use a tyre pressure gauge to check the pressure, which should align with the recommended level (found on your driver’s door sticker or in the owner’s manual). Inflate or deflate as needed.
• How often to do it: Check tyre pressure monthly, especially before long trips.
• Tip: Don’t forget to check the spare tyre—having a flat spare won’t help in an emergency!
4. Inspect Your Tyre Tread
Your tyres are the only part of your car in contact with the road, so maintaining tread depth is critical for safety.
• How to do it: Use a 20-cent coin to check tread depth—if the tread doesn’t cover the platypus’ bill, it’s time for a new tyre.
• How often to do it: Inspect tyres every 1-2 months or before long trips.
• Tip: Rotating your tyres every 10,000 km ensures even wear and extends their lifespan.
5. Replace Air Filters
A clean air filter ensures your engine breathes properly and maintains fuel efficiency. Replacing it regularly is simple and prevents dirt and debris from clogging the engine.
• How to do it: Locate the air filter box under the hood, unclip it, and replace the old filter with a new one.
• How often to do it: Replace your air filter every 12 months or 15,000 km, whichever comes first.
• Tip: If you often drive on dusty roads, check and replace your air filter more frequently.
6. Keep Your Battery Clean and Charged
Corrosion on battery terminals can reduce performance or even prevent your car from starting. A quick DIY clean-up can help maintain battery life.
• How to do it: Disconnect the battery cables (negative first), clean the terminals with a wire brush and baking soda solution, then reconnect the cables (positive first).
• How often to do it: Inspect the battery every 6 months.
• Tip: If your car struggles to start, it may be time for a new battery—consider booking in for a battery test.
When to Call in the Experts
While these DIY tips will help you keep your vehicle in good shape, some tasks are better left to professionals. If you notice unusual sounds, leaks, or dashboard warnings, it’s time to bring your car in for expert attention.
At Leondis Automotive, we’re here to help you keep your car running smoothly. Whether it’s routine maintenance or diagnosing an issue, our skilled mechanics and advanced diagnostic tools ensure your vehicle gets the care it needs.
Contact us today for all your car maintenance needs and benefit from dealer level expertise and superior service from Sydney’s leading automotive experts.
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