Passing your driving test is an incredible feeling and the start of a new chapter in your life. One area that many new motorists struggle with is car maintenance – it is important that you know how to carry out basic maintenance tasks so that you can keep your car in tip-top condition and reduce the chance of a breakdown. You will also need to arrange insurance for young drivers and keep the documentation in the car. Here are the main maintenance tasks to learn:
Check Tyre Pressure & Tread Depth Regularly
Keeping your tyres inflated to the recommended pressure is important for performance, efficiency, and safety. Therefore, you should test your pressure regularly and top up when required (you can find the recommended pressure in your owner’s manual). Additionally, be sure to check the tread depth with a 20p coin – 1.3mm is the legal minimum, but it is recommended you change your car tyres once you get below 3mm for safety.
Monitor Oil Levels & Schedule Oil Changes
Engine oil is important for lubrication and protecting the engine’s components. Therefore, you should check your oil level using the dipstick and look for signs of low or dirty oil. You should also schedule oil changes according to your car’s manual – generally, this is between 3,000 and 5,000 miles.
Keep an Eye on Fluid Levels
There are various fluids that keep your vehicle running smoothly, so you need to keep an eye on these and top them up when they drop below the marker. Brake fluid and coolant are particularly important for safety and engine performance, so you want to keep a close eye on these. The main fluids include:
- Brake fluid
- Coolant
- Transmission fluid
- Windshield washer fluid
Replace Windshield Wipers & Keep Washer Fluid Full
Visibility is critical, especially in bad weather (which is common in the UK!). Therefore, it is a good idea to inspect your windshield wipers on a regular basis and replace them if they are streaking or making noises. You should also keep the washer fluid topped up so you can quickly clear dirt, bugs, and other debris off your windshield to maximize visibility.
Pay Attention to the Warning Lights
Finally, you should always pay attention to the warning lights and educate yourself on what each one means by reading the manual. If the check engine light or any other warning light appears, be sure to get the car checked as soon as possible. Early attention to these alerts can prevent minor issues from becoming major (and expensive repairs).
These are the main maintenance tasks that every new driver should teach themselves. When you are able to carry out these maintenance tasks, you can keep your vehicle in the best condition and reduce the chance of a breakdown while also extending the life of the vehicle. Car maintenance can also give you confidence as you will have a better understanding of your automobile.