Regular maintenance is the key to keeping your car reliable, safe, and valuable. Whether you drive a daily commuter or a weekend cruiser, these maintenance tips will help you avoid costly repairs and extend your vehicle’s life.

1. Follow Your Maintenance Schedule

Every vehicle comes with a manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule. Follow it closely for:

• Oil changes (typically every 5,000-8,000 km)
• Tire rotations (every 8,000-10,000 km)
• Brake inspections
• Fluid checks and changes
• Filter replacements

Pro tip: Keep a maintenance log to track services – it helps with resale value too!

2. Check Your Fluids Regularly

Your car depends on several fluids to run smoothly. Check these monthly:

• Engine oil – low levels cause engine damage
• Coolant/antifreeze – prevents overheating
• Brake fluid – essential for stopping safely
• Transmission fluid – keeps gears shifting smoothly
• Windshield washer fluid – for clear visibility

3. Maintain Your Tires

Tires are your only contact with the road. Proper tire care includes:

• Check pressure monthly – under-inflated tires wear faster and reduce fuel economy
• Rotate regularly – ensures even wear
• Check tread depth – replace when tread is below 2/32 inch
• Align wheels – prevents uneven wear and improves handling

4. Pay Attention to Warning Lights

Don’t ignore dashboard warning lights. They’re your car’s way of telling you something needs attention:

• Check Engine Light – could be minor or serious, get it diagnosed
• Oil Pressure Light – stop driving immediately if this comes on
• Brake Warning Light – have brakes inspected right away
• Battery Light – alternator or battery issue

5. Listen to Your Car

Unusual sounds often indicate problems before they become serious:

• Squealing when braking – brake pads need replacement
• Grinding noise – serious brake or transmission issue
• Clicking when turning – worn CV joint
• Rumbling from tires – wheel bearing or tire issue
• Engine knocking – low oil or engine problem

6. Seasonal Maintenance Checklist

Winter Prep:

• Check battery health (cold weather is hard on batteries)
• Install winter tires
• Test antifreeze levels
• Check windshield wipers
• Keep emergency kit in trunk

Summer Prep:

• Check air conditioning
• Inspect cooling system
• Check tire pressure (heat affects pressure)
• Test battery (summer heat can damage batteries)

7. Keep It Clean

Regular cleaning protects your car’s value:

• Wash regularly – road salt and dirt can cause rust
• Wax twice a year – protects paint
• Clean interior – prevents wear and maintains value
• Protect from sun – use sunshade to protect dashboard and seats

8. Know When to Visit a Professional

While some maintenance is DIY-friendly, leave these to the professionals:

• Major repairs (engine, transmission)
• Electrical system diagnosis
• Brake system work
• Air conditioning repairs
• Suspension work

Maintenance Checklist Summary

Frequency	Service
Every week	Check tire pressure, fluid levels
Every month	Check lights, wipers, belts, hoses
Every 5,000-8,000 km	Oil change, tire rotation
Every 20,000-30,000 km	Air filter replacement, brake inspection
Every 50,000-60,000 km	Major service, fluid changes

Need Service or Maintenance?

At Underten Auto, our certified technicians can help keep your vehicle in top condition. Whether you need a simple oil change or major service, we’re here to help.

Questions about your vehicle’s maintenance? Contact our service team today →

---

Follow these maintenance tips and your car will reward you with years of reliable service. Have questions about your specific vehicle? We’re happy to help!