Now to the round rubber heroes of our vehicles: the tires! Checking tire pressure is a breeze and can save you from a bumpy ride or, worse, a blowout. Yikes! So, let’s be diligent and address those electrical gremlins promptly. Oh, and here’s an interesting tidbit: according to the Car Care Council, faulty electrical systems are one of the leading causes of vehicle fires. This is pretty vital, if you’re driving an electric car. They might seem insignificant, but faulty wires can cause misfires, rough idling, and reduced fuel efficiency.Īs for fuses, watch for any blown ones that may affect your car’s electronics. Don’t forget to test the battery voltage using a multimeter or consult your local auto shop for a quick battery check.Īdditionally, inspect those spark plug wires. Sounds like a nightmare, right? Well, it’s often caused by a neglected battery.Ĭheck the battery’s health by inspecting its terminals for corrosion and cleaning them if needed. Imagine being late for an important meeting, but your car won’t start.
Checking and topping up fluids (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, etc.).Lastly, don’t let your engine gasp for air! Clean or replace the air filter regularly to ensure proper airflow and fuel efficiency. Regularly topping them up helps prevent overheating, brake failure, and steering issues. Brake fluid, coolant, and power steering fluid are vital for optimal performance. While we’re under the hood, let’s not forget the fluids that keep things running smoothly. Aim for an oil change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, but be sure to check your manufacturer’s recommendations. Fresh oil keeps the engine properly lubricated, reducing friction and wear. Revving up your engine requires some tender loving care.įirst up, don’t underestimate the power of regular oil changes. To ensure your vehicle stays in good condition, you ought to check this essential car maintenance checklist. But trust me, it’s crucial for your beloved ride’s longevity and performance. Not all country mechanics have quick access to replacement parts, either, so if you carry some basic spare parts like hose clamps or an accessory drive belt it's a huge help to get moving again.Did you know that regular maintenance can save you big bucks by preventing costly repairs down the road? According to a survey conducted by AutoMD, neglecting car maintenance can increase the chances of unexpected breakdowns by a whopping 84%.Ĭar maintenance might not sound like the most thrilling topic. Having the right tools in your car can help you get back on the road, whether it's you or a passer-by who has the know-how. When you're off the beaten track, help might not be readily available. It's best to check your car's mechanics so you're not stuck waiting for assistance if something goes wrong Essential tools Find your car's spare key and keep it with you in case you lose the one you are using.Make sure your car has had a service with a comprehensive safety check within a reasonable time frame prior to setting off.Check you have the correct level of RAC Roadside Assistance cover.If towing a trailer or caravan, make sure you understand your vehicle's towing capacity before checking the chains, couplings, sway bars, shackles, and lights and ensure that any awnings and doors are locked in place.Make sure all your lights and indicators are working.Check under your vehicle for obvious leaks when parked for a period of time - if you find a leak, RAC Auto Services can assist.Check that the spare wheel is secured and in good condition.
Make sure your fuel gauge and temperature gauge are operating correctly.Clean your windscreen and make sure the wipers and washers are operating and cleaning correctly.Make sure all your tyres are properly inflated and they have enough tread.Make sure you have enough fuel, oil and radiator coolant.If you find any issues, call your mechanic – better to be safe than sorry. Car checklistīefore you head off on your great adventure, run through these basic checks to make sure your car is in good working order. Here are the things to check before you head off - plus essential items to carry with you in case trouble does strike. If you're planning to travel more than two hours one way, it's really worthwhile taking 10 minutes to give your car a quick check over before you hit the road as nothing takes the fun out of a road trip like a break down.
Although you might think your car feels and sounds good to go for a long drive, it might not be.