Basic car maintenance can help keep your car running safely and may prevent an accident. These seven basic car care tips are easy to maintain and can help you and your passengers be safe on the road.
Remember, all makes and models are different. It’s important to check your owner’s manual for information specific to your car.
1. Engine oil.
Engine oil is the most vital fluid your vehicle needs to operate. Its main function is to lubricate moving parts to keep them working properly and efficiently. Most car manufacturers recommend an oil change every three months or 3,000 to 5,000 miles.
2. Brake pads.
If you suspect any problems, get your breaks checked immediately. According to CarCare.org you should watch out for the following warning signs:
- Noise: stretching or clicking noises
- Pulling: car pulls to one side while braking
- Low Pedal: brake pedal nearly touches the floor
- Hard Pedal: must apply extreme force to the pedal
- Grabbing: brakes clutch at the slightest touch to the pedal
- Vibration: brake pedal vibrates, even under normal braking conditions
- Light: brake light appears on your dashboard
3. Tire pressure.
Having the correct tire pressure levels is important because having too much can lead to a tire blow out, and having too little can waste gas and cause the tire to run hotter from the extra friction. According to CareCare.org, tires naturally lose 1-2 psi per month, so it’s recommended to check pressure when filling up your gas tank.
4. Emergency kit.
It’s important to have an emergency kit in your car in case something goes wrong. You can buy a pre-made emergency kit or assemble one yourself including first aid supplies, jumper cables, tow rope, flashlight, air compressor and fire extinguisher.
Learn about our
Auto Insurance
5. Wiper blades.
Your windshield wipers are responsible for clearing rain, snow and ice off your windshield for better visibility when driving. Replace your wiper blades every fall to ensure they’re working properly to give you a clear view.
6. Driving gently.
Be gentle behind the wheel. This means slowing down for bumps or potholes, taking corners at a sensible speed and avoid using your lead foot (aka putting your foot to the floor). Driving aggressively puts stress on your car, especially the engine.
7. HVAC inspection.
Schedule an HVAC inspection with a mechanic to ensure your heating system is working properly and that your defroster can clear the windows.
Bonus tip: Make sure you have enough auto insurance in case the worst happens. Contact your local independent insurance agent to ensure you are properly covered.
If you have an Integrity auto insurance policy, you can call for roadside assistance using the phone number on the back of your insurance card or through your Integrity Insurance Mobile app. If you haven’t already, consider adding Roadside Assistance coverage to your Integrity auto policy to help cover the costs of unexpected roadside maintenance.
This article is for informational and suggestion purposes only. Implementing one or more of these suggestions does not guarantee coverage. If any policy coverage descriptions in this article conflict with the language in the policy, the language in the policy applies. For full details on Integrity’s car insurance coverages and discounts, contact your local, independent Integrity insurance agent.