The Car Maintenance You Should Be Doing Regularly

You don't have to be a mechanic to take great care of your car. If you own your vehicle but have no idea how to care for it, it's time that changes. Here's all the basic car maintenance you should be doing on a regular basis.

Change the oil

Even the most novice of car owners tend to know they should be getting an oil change every few months, but how often is it exactly? Most cars are actually best suited for an oil change somewhere between 5,000 and 7,500 miles. Synthetic oil will last even longer, typically 10,000 to 15,000 miles.

Oil is important for keeping your car's engine running smoothly, so if you're not looking to break down on your way to a deep sea fishing trip, keep an eye on the vehicle's oil. You can check it yourself easily by using the dipstick to measure the oil level. The dipstick reading will be somewhere between low and full. You can add more oil yourself if you're running low, but don't skip the oil change when you're back from your trip.

Inspect the tires

Tires can be expensive, especially if you're replacing them often. Worn tires can also be dangerous, leading to skidding or a popped tire on the highway. Inspect your tires frequently and make sure they're in great condition. They should have the right air pressure (which you can check at any gas station) and the tread shouldn't be worn down. You can check the tread by looking for the indicators. If they're showing, it's time for new tires. As tires age, they also become unsafe, so even if you don't drive frequently, you'll want new ones if they're old. Great tire maintenance can extend the life of your tires by almost 5,000 miles, which keeps you safe and money in your wallet.

Clean the headlights

Dirty headlights don't just look bad. Having foggy headlights make it harder for you to see the road at night or in bad weather, while also making it harder for other drivers to see you. A headlight restoration kit is cheap, easy to use, and effective. This kit will give you all the tools you need to properly clean your headlights, which you won't find in your home. All you have to do is wipe, dry, and polish. The included wipes are easy to use and thoroughly clean the car's headlights. The final coat of polish protects your lights from further grime and provides the best result. The entire process will take less than two minutes and you'll love the results. Headlight restoration is an easy way to care for your car while ensuring your own safety.

Replace the windshield wipers and fluid

Windshield wipers are crucial for visibility. If you're caught in a rainstorm or driving down a muddy road, you'll need the wipers to clear the windshield and keep your view clear. If you notice streaking or one blade isn't even touching the windshield, it's time to replace them. You can switch them yourself or ask the mechanic to do it the next time you get your car inspected. Make sure the wiper fluid is also topped off. The fluid is just as important as the wipers on days when dust or dirt attempt to obscure your view. Don't let the fluid run out.

The more you do for your car, the more you'll come to understand the way it works. When something sounds off when driving to work, take it to a garage. Keep your vehicle in great shape and your hard work will pay off when your car lasts many years.