Hi, I’m Alex! If you’re looking to save some cash and gain confidence in taking care of your vehicle, then DIY vehicle maintenance is definitely the way to go. I remember feeling intimidated when I first started, but it didn’t take long to see that maintaining a car myself wasn’t only doable—it was incredibly rewarding. You don’t have to be a mechanic to tackle some of the basics, and a little knowledge can go a long way toward keeping your car running smoothly.
Here are 5 powerful DIY vehicle maintenance steps that have kept my car in top shape over the years. Let’s get into it!
1. Check and Maintain Tyre Pressure and Condition Regularly
Tyres are essential for both safety and fuel efficiency, and keeping them in good shape is surprisingly easy. Under-inflated tyres can lead to poor fuel economy, while over-inflated tyres can wear out unevenly, so checking tyre pressure regularly is key. I keep a tyre pressure gauge in my glove box and check my tyres at least once a month.
DIY Tyre Maintenance Tips:
- Check tyre pressure with a gauge while the tyres are cold. Your car’s recommended pressure will be listed in the manual or inside the driver’s door.
- Examine the tyre tread depth and look for signs of wear. A tread depth gauge works great, but a 20-cent coin is a quick option—the tread should cover the platypus’ nose on the coin!
- Look for cracks, bulges, or objects like nails embedded in the tread, and have any damage repaired quickly.
Pro Tip: Rotate your tyres every 10,000 km to ensure even wear and prolong their lifespan.
2. Replace Windshield Wipers Annually for Clear Vision
Windshield wipers may seem minor, but they’re essential for visibility and safety, especially during heavy rain. I used to delay replacing mine, but then I realised how much difference a good pair of wipers makes, especially in bad weather. Luckily, changing wiper blades is one of the easiest maintenance tasks you can do yourself.
How to Replace Wiper Blades:
- Lift the wiper arm and press the small tab to release the old blade.
- Align and click the new blade into place.
- Gently lower the wiper arm back onto the windshield to avoid scratches.
Pro Tip: Replace your wipers once a year or whenever they start to streak or squeak. Spring is a good time to do it, as it preps you for winter weather.
3. Keep Fluids Topped Up for Optimal Performance
Besides oil, several other fluids keep your car running smoothly, including coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. Checking these regularly prevents any surprises and helps extend your vehicle’s life. I make it a habit to check fluid levels every couple of months and top up when necessary.
How to Check and Top Up Fluids:
- Coolant: Check the coolant reservoir (when the engine is cool!) and add a 50/50 mix of water and coolant if it’s low.
- Brake fluid: Locate the brake fluid reservoir, unscrew the cap, and check the level against the marked line.
- Power steering fluid: With the engine off, check the level and add more if needed, following your vehicle’s recommended type.
Pro Tip: Always use the type of fluid specified in your car’s manual—using the wrong type can lead to expensive repairs.
4. Inspect and Replace Air Filters for Better Fuel Efficiency
Air filters keep dirt and debris out of your engine, which not only helps it run smoothly but also improves fuel efficiency. When I realised how easy it was to change an air filter, it quickly became part of my regular DIY vehicle maintenance routine. Generally, replacing the air filter every 15,000 to 20,000 km works well for most vehicles.
How to Replace Your Air Filter:
- Find the air filter box under the bonnet (usually at the top of the engine compartment).
- Remove the clips or screws to open the box, then take out the old filter.
- Insert the new filter and re-secure the box.
Pro Tip: If you drive in particularly dusty conditions, check your filter more often, as it may clog up faster.
5. Test and Clean Your Battery for a Reliable Start
Your car battery powers the entire electrical system, so keeping it in good condition is essential. I make it a point to check my battery every month or so, especially if I’m planning a long drive. With a simple battery tester and some basic cleaning, you can make sure it’s working well and avoid the hassle of a dead battery.
Battery Maintenance Steps:
- Check the terminals for signs of corrosion (white or blue build-up).
- Clean the terminals with a mix of baking soda and water and a wire brush.
- Check battery voltage with a multimeter—a reading of 12.6 volts or above means it’s fully charged.
Pro Tip: If your battery is over three years old, have it tested regularly. Most batteries last 3-5 years, so this can save you from unexpected breakdowns.
Final Thoughts on DIY Vehicle Maintenance
DIY vehicle maintenance doesn’t have to be intimidating. With a bit of time and practice, these five steps can keep your car running smoothly and save you money on unnecessary repairs. Plus, there’s something incredibly rewarding about taking care of your own vehicle!
I hope these tips help you feel confident about tackling basic maintenance on your car. Got any DIY maintenance tips of your own, or have questions about one of these steps? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear from you! Happy driving, and here’s to a long-lasting, well-maintained car!
