Car Maintenance 101: Essential Tips to Keep Your Vehicle Running Smoothly

Proper car maintenance is the key to ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly and lasts for years, and the last thing you need is for your car to break down in the middle of the highway. Imagine waiting hours for a recovery truck to rescue you while having family and kids in the car; it's a nightmare we all want to avoid. A well-maintained vehicle saves money on costly repairs and provides a safer and more enjoyable driving experience. In this article, we'll cover essential maintenance tips that every car owner should follow to keep their vehicle in top shape. Also, you can watch our comprehensive video in Arabic titled "Car Maintenance Essentials That Every Man Should Know." 

1. Regular Oil Changes

One of the most important aspects of car maintenance is changing the engine oil regularly. I can't stress this enough. Engine oil serves as a lubricant for your vehicle's moving parts, reducing friction and preventing wear and tear. Over time, the oil can become contaminated with dirt and debris, leading to reduced performance and potential engine damage. Changing your oil every 5000 to 10,000 kilometers is generally recommended, depending on your oil, vehicle's make, and model. However, always consult your owner's manual for specific recommendations for your car. Watch our video titled "Car Maintenance Essentials That Every Man Should Know," which explains the importance of changing engine oil and the types of available oils out there. You can also see what happens to the engine if you don't change its oil on time. We recommend changing the oil EXACTLY at 5k or 10k, according to the type. You can know when to change the engine oil by looking at the sticker which is placed next to the driver's door. These stickers display the mileage for the next engine oil change service. 

2. Tire Maintenance

Tires are crucial to your car's performance and safety. Regularly inspect your tires for wear, damage, and proper inflation. You can do this in the morning before starting your vehicle at least once a week. Underinflated tires can negatively impact your car's fuel efficiency, handling, and braking. Overinflated tires are more prone to punctures and uneven wear. Watch our video titled "Car Maintenance Essentials That Every Man Should Know," which shows how to identify your tire type and size and know when it's worn out. 

Rotating your tires every 10,000 km is essential to ensure even wear and extend their lifespan. If you purchase four tires from AutoPro, tire rotation is free (otherwise, it would cost you 150 Dhs). Also, keep an eye on the tread depth to ensure your tires maintain proper traction on the road,. Most new tires have tread wear indicators to help you identify worn-out tires. According to Michelin tires, there are three main causes and types of early tire tread wear :

Underinflated tires: creates uneven tread wear on both outside edges of the tires.  

Overinflated tire: causes early tread wear on the center of the tire

Improper camber setting: make the tire wear on either the inside or outside shoulder of the tread

3. Brake Inspection

Your vehicle's brakes are vital for ensuring a safe driving experience. Over time, brake pads can wear down, leading to reduced stopping power and potential damage to other brake components. Regular inspection is important to identify potential issues before they snowball into serious problems. Most experts recommend having your brakes checked at least once a year or whenever you notice any signs of trouble, such as squeaking, grinding, or a spongy brake pedal. Read our previous article here for a list of common car noises and their causes. 

4. Fluid Checks

Aside from engine oil, your vehicle relies on various other fluids to function correctly. These include transmission fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Regularly checking and topping off these fluids can help prevent potential problems and extend the life of your vehicle's components. Consult your owner's manual for the recommended intervals for checking and replacing each fluid. If you change your oil at AutoPro, you get a free 20-item inspection checklist that covers these things. Watch our video titled "Car Maintenance Essentials That Every Man Should Know," which shows various fluid checks such as coolant and brake fluids. 

5. Battery Maintenance

Your car's battery provides the power needed to start the engine and run electrical components. Over time, batteries can lose their ability to hold a charge, leading to a dead battery or reduced performance. Regularly inspect your battery for corrosion, and clean the terminals if necessary. It's also a good idea to have your battery tested to ensure it's still holding a proper charge. Watch our video titled "Car Maintenance Essentials That Every Man Should Know," which shows the "magic eye" that modern batteries come equipped with to check on the condition of your car battery.

6. Air Filter Replacement

Your engine relies on a steady flow of clean air to operate efficiently. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, reducing performance and fuel efficiency. Most experts recommend replacing your air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, depending on your driving conditions. Replacing a dirty air filter is a simple and cost-effective way to improve your vehicle's performance and extend its life. Watch our video titled "Car Maintenance Essentials That Every Man Should Know," which shows how air filters work and why they need to be replaced. 

7. Regular Washing and Waxing

Keeping your car clean isn't just about appearance – it also helps protect your vehicle from the elements. Dirt, grime, and road salt can cause damage to your car's paint and lead to rust over time. Regularly washing and waxing your vehicle can help remove harmful contaminants and protect your car's finish. Moreover, sensors and cameras equipped with modern vehicles may be impaired if your car is dirty. That's why it's necessary to keep your sensors clean every day. A well-maintained exterior can also help preserve your vehicle's resale value.

Following these simple car maintenance steps can help extend the lifespan of your vehicle and, more importantly, have fewer breakdowns and problems down the road. 

Sources:

https://www.michelin.co.uk/auto/advice/change-tyres/tyre-wear-indicator