3 Easy Car Maintenance Tips

My first car still going strong

Kilburn St. 

Have you ever had your car stall out just as you're leaving for work? Or maybe it burns oil, leaks oil, or just refuses to start before the day even begins. If you’re driving an older car or trying to keep things running on a tight budget, you know the struggle is real.

I’ve been around cars most of my life. I used to work on them with my dad behind our old apartment, in this dusty garage that always smelled like oil and worn-out tools. He taught me everything I know. But even now, I’m still learning more every day. One thing’s for sure: he definitely laid the foundation for what it means to really take care of a car.

Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been dealing with car problems for years, a few simple habits can go a long way in keeping your vehicle running reliably. You don’t need a full set of tools or need to break the bank, it is about being attentive and willing to get a bit of elbow grease going.

Here are three (plus a bonus tip) easy car maintenance tips that’ll help you avoid expensive repairs and keep your car in solid shape.

1. Check Your Oil Regularly

Think of engine oil as your car’s lifeblood. It keeps everything lubricated, reduces heat, and protects the engine from wear and tear. But when the oil gets low or dirty, your engine starts to suffer which can and will lead to expensive repairs.

The good news? Checking your oil takes less than five minutes. Just pop the hood, pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, dip it again, and see where the level is. If it’s low or looks dark and gritty, it’s time for a change. It also depends on the car and year, some newers cars do not have a dipstick like BMWs, which you can check through their dashboard. 

Tip:

Check your oil once a month and change it every 3,000–7,500 miles depending on your vehicle and oil type. 

2. Keep Your Tires Inflated and Rotated

Underinflated tires are a silent money waster. They wear unevenly, hurt your gas mileage, and can even blow out if left unchecked. Rotating your tires every few thousand miles helps them wear evenly, keeping you safer and extending their life. I used to ignore tire rotation until the inside of my left front and rear tires were balding unevenly. The car started pulling to one side, and my traction in the rain got sketchy. Since then, I’ve stayed on top of rotations and proper alignment which lead to my tires lasting significantly longer.

Tip:
Check your tire pressure monthly (your car's manual or door frame will tell you the correct PSI). Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, often it lines up with oil changes, so it’s easy to remember.

3. Replace Your Air Filters on Time

Your engine air filter keeps dust and debris out of the engine, while the cabin air filter keeps the air you breathe inside the car clean. When they’re clogged, your engine works harder, your fuel efficiency drops, and your A/C might even start to smell (a distinctive smell you can not miss).

Tip:

Most air filters should be replaced every 12,000–15,000 miles, but check your manual. They’re usually cheap and easy to swap yourself, no tools required.

OK, bonus tip..

4. Don’t Ignore Your Battery

Now my bonus tip, my least favorite and the one I have came across the most. Your car battery might not get much attention, until your car won’t start (learned my lesson). A weak or dying battery can leave you stranded, especially in extreme heat or cold. Luckily, a little attention goes a long way. There was one winter where my car would randomly refuse to start. I thought it was something major, turns out the battery was corroded and barely hanging on. A quick cleaning and a new terminal later, it was good as new. 

Tip:
Check your battery terminals for corrosion (white or bluish powder) every few months. Clean it off with baking soda and water if needed. If your battery is more than 3–5 years old, get it tested most auto parts stores will do it for free. Sometimes flickering dashboard lights, slight start delays, and even low headlights can be sign of a worn out or near the end battery. 

Now what? Well show your car some love now. 

If your car’s not brand new, or your bank account isn’t carrying a lot of zeros than staying on top of the basics can make a huge difference. You don’t need to be a pro. Just checking your oil, paying attention to your tires, changing your filters, and keeping your battery in check can save you from major repairs down the line.

Pick one of these tips and do it this week. Seriously, set a reminder. These small steps can help your car last longer, drive better, and stress you out way less. Share this to a someone who does not love their car!

The Garage where I used to work on cars with my father is next to that Black BMW
 (ignore the police please)






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