Owning a car can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to maintenance. The thought of frequent trips to the mechanic, costly repairs, and the uncertainty of what's going on under the hood can be overwhelming. By taking a proactive approach to car care, you can avoid costly repairs, improve your car's performance, and ensure your safety on the road. In this article, we'll walk you through few car maintenance tips that will empower you to get back in the driver's seat and take control of your vehicle's well-being.

1: Check Your Oil Regularly

Failing to check your oil regularly can lead to engine failure, leaving you stranded with a hefty repair bill. By making it a habit to check your oil every time you fill up on fuel, you'll be able to identify any potential issues before they become major problems. Look for the oil dipstick under the hood, pull it out, and wipe it clean with a lint-free rag. Then, insert it back into the oil reservoir and pull it out again. The oil level should be between the "MIN" and "MAX" marks on the dipstick. If it's low, add the recommended type and amount of oil. It's also essential to check the oil color. If it's dark and murky, it may be a sign that it's time for an oil change. By staying on top of your oil game, you'll be able to extend the life of your vehicle, improve its performance, and avoid costly repairs down the road.

2: Replace Your Air Filter for Better Fuel Efficiency

Clogged air filter can decrease your gas mileage by up to 20%, which can add up to a significant expense over time. By replacing your air filter regularly, you can breathe new life into your engine and start saving money on fuel costs. A clean air filter ensures that your engine is receiving the proper amount of air, which improves combustion, reduces emissions, and boosts your car's overall performance. So, make it a habit to check and replace your air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles.

3: Inspect and Maintain Your Tire Pressure

Proper tire pressure is one of the most crucial yet often overlooked aspects of car maintenance. Under-inflated tires can lead to a plethora of problems, including reduced fuel efficiency, uneven tire wear, and even increased risk of a blowout. On the other hand, overinflated tires can cause a bumpy ride, reduced traction, and increased stopping distances. By regularly inspecting and maintaining your tire pressure, you can ensure a smoother ride, improved fuel economy, and enhanced safety on the road.

Check your tire pressure every month, and before long trips. It's also essential to check your tire pressure when your tires are cold, as driving can heat up your tires and affect the reading. You can find the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle on the tire information placard, usually located on the driver's side doorjamb or inside the fuel filler door.

4: Replace Your Wiper Blades

The wiper blade is also one of those often-overlooked, yet crucial components of your vehicle's maintenance arsenal. Your wiper blades are responsible for clearing rain, snow, and debris from your windshield, giving you a clear view of the road ahead. But when they're worn out, streaked, or damaged, they can become a serious safety hazard, reducing your visibility and increasing your risk of accidents. By prioritising replacing your wiper blades, you'll not only reduce the risk of potential hazards on the road due to poor visibility, but you'll also ensure that your vehicle is always ready to tackle the road, no matter the weather.

5: Keep Your Battery Terminals Clean

A dirty battery terminal can be a silent killer of your car's performance, causing sluggish starts, dim headlights, and even leaving you stranded on the side of the road. Corrosion and buildup on the terminals can prevent the proper flow of electricity, making it difficult for your engine to turn over. But the good news is that cleaning your battery terminals is a simple and effective DIY task that can be done with just a few basic tools.

To get started, you'll need a wire brush, some baking soda, and water. Begin by disconnecting the negative (black) cable from the terminal, then use the wire brush to scrub away any visible corrosion or buildup. Mix the baking soda and water to create a paste, and apply it to the terminals. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing off with water and drying with a clean cloth. Finally, reconnect the negative cable and start the engine to test the connection.

By keeping your battery terminals clean, you'll ensure a reliable start every time, prevent damage to your electrical system, and even improve your car's overall performance. And with this simple DIY task, you'll be back in the driver's seat in no time, with a car that runs smoothly and efficiently.

6: Check Your Belts and Hoses

These crucial components work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep your car running smoothly, but they can be prone to wear and tear, leading to costly repairs if left unchecked. Think of them as the lifelines of your engine, pumping vital fluids and transmitting power to keep your vehicle moving. A snapped belt or burst hose can bring your car to a grinding halt, leaving you stranded and frustrated. By regularly inspecting your belts and hoses, you can identify potential problems before they become major issues. Look for signs of cracks, frays, and brittleness, and replace them as needed.

7: Change Your Spark Plugs for Better Performance

These tiny powerhouses are responsible for igniting the fuel that keeps your vehicle running, and yet, they're often neglected until it's too late. Worn out spark plugs can lead to a decrease in engine performance, lower fuel efficiency, and even cause damage to other engine components. By replacing your spark plugs with new ones, you'll notice a significant improvement in your car's performance, including smoother acceleration, better fuel economy, and a quieter ride. Plus, it's a great way to save money on gas and avoid costly repairs down the line.

8: Inspect Your Brake Pads and Rotors

When it comes to your vehicle's safety, there's no room for compromise. Your brakes are one of the most critical systems in your car, and neglecting them can lead to disastrous consequences. That's why regular inspections of your brake pads and rotors are essential to extend the life of your vehicle.

Worn-out brake pads can cause your rotors to warp, leading to a costly repair bill. Moreover, if your brake pads are too thin, they may not be able to provide the necessary stopping power, putting you and your passengers at risk. By inspecting your brake pads and rotors regularly, you can identify any potential issues before they become major problems.

To inspect your brake pads, look for signs of wear, such as uneven wear patterns, excessive wear on the edges, or a thickness of less than 1/8 inch. For your rotors, check for scoring, warping, or excessive wear.

9: Replace Your Cabin Air Filter

Breathing easy in your car is more than just a figure of speech. A dirty cabin air filter can turn your daily commute into a miserable experience, circulating dust, pollen, and other allergens throughout the vehicle. But, by replacing your cabin air filter, you can breathe a sigh of relief and ensure a healthier, more comfortable ride. Located behind the glove compartment or under the hood, this often-overlooked filter is responsible for purifying the air inside your car. A clogged filter can lead to musty odours, and reduced airflow. By swapping it out for a new one every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, you'll not only improve the air quality but also boost the overall performance of your vehicle's heating and cooling system.

10: Check Your Transmission Fluid

The transmission fluid - the lifeblood of your vehicle's gearbox. Without it, your transmission can overheat, leading to premature wear, sluggish shifting, and even complete failure. Checking it regularly is a crucial DIY car maintenance task that can help prevent costly repairs down the road. It is also a simple process that can be done in just a few minutes. Locate the transmission fluid dipstick under the hood, pull it out, and wipe it clean with a lint-free rag. Then, insert it back into the transmission and pull it out again. The fluid level should be between the "MIN" and "MAX" marks on the dipstick. Check the color too - it should be a light brown or red color. If it's dark or has a burnt smell, it's time to change it. By keeping your transmission fluid in top shape, you'll be ensuring a smooth ride, improved fuel efficiency, and a longer lifespan for your vehicle.

Bonus tip: Inspect Your Suspension and Steering

As you navigate the twists and turns of the road, your suspension and steering systems work tirelessly to keep your vehicle stable and responsive. But over time, wear and tear can take its toll, leading to a rough ride, uneven tire wear, and even safety issues. That's why it's essential to regularly inspect your suspension and steering components to catch any potential problems before they become major headaches.

Take a few minutes to visually inspect your shock absorbers, struts, and springs for signs of leakage, rust, or damage. Check your ball joints and tie rod ends for any play or looseness, and make sure your power steering fluid is at the recommended level. If you notice any unusual noises or vibrations while driving, don't hesitate to dig deeper and investigate the source.

By staying on top of your suspension and steering maintenance, you'll not only ensure a smoother ride and better handling, but also prevent costly repairs down the road. And, as an added bonus, you'll even improve your vehicle's overall fuel efficiency and performance.

As time go by, it's easy to fall into the trap of neglecting these routine checks and repairs, leading to costly breakdowns and a dwindling sense of control. But what if you could take back the reins and extend the life of your vehicle without having to do these checks yourself or breaking the bank either? With Flickwheel’s premium car maintenance subscriptions, we can help you identify and tackle all of your car maintenance issues.

By subscribing to any of our plans, you'll not only save a huge sum on repair costs but also regain confidence behind the wheel, ensuring the longevity of your vehicle.

So, don't let car maintenance intimidate you anymore. Subscribe to any of our premium car maintenance plans today. Starting as low as N9,928 monthly. Your wallet, and your car, will thank you.