7 Important Car Maintenance Safety Tips

A new car is one of the biggest investments you can make, so it’s important to keep it maintained and in optimal working condition. Not only does vehicle maintenance extend the life of your car to keep you from paying expensive repairs you could potentially avoid, it also keeps you safer while you're on the road.

In addition to following the maintenance schedule outlined in your owner's manual, these car maintenance tips will help you keep your car in the best—and safest—condition possible.

1) Check and Fill Your Tires Regularly

Maintaining your tires is a key element of basic car care. It helps them last longer, gives you a smoother ride, reduces your chances of getting into an accident, and helps maximize your gas mileage. Regular maintenance for your tires can prevent blowouts and flats, so you can avoid getting stranded on the side of the road.

Be sure to have your tires inspected and rotated every 5,000 to 10,000 miles to help them wear evenly. Check your tires regularly to make sure they have the proper tire pressure. Keeping them inflated to the right pressure ensures that they can withstand rough roads and potholes.

No matter what, always keep a spare tire in your trunk in the event of an emergency. You never know where or when a breakdown may occur, so it’s a good idea to learn how to change a spare tire yourself.

Keep a Tire Gauge in Your Glove Box

Buy a tire pressure gauge and keep it in your car. Check your tire pressure once a month, or make it a habit of checking it every 3rd or 4th time you go to the gas station. If your tire pressure is at a lower level than the one recommended by the manufacturer, fill them up at the gas station as soon as you can (most gas stations have free air tanks for this purpose). Make sure you do not over inflate your tires—too much air pressure can make tires wear down faster, and can lead to driving issues like unstable handling and poor traction. Make sure to look inside the driver’s door or in your car’s manual for the appropriate air pressure level for your car. Tire pressure levels vary by make and model.

Consider a Portable Air Compressor

You can be even more prepared for a flat by purchasing a portable air compressor to keep in your trunk. If you notice that your tire pressure is low, you can fill up your tires wherever you are (home, work, school, grocery store parking lot, etc.)

2) Schedule Regular Oil Changes

Oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle (that is—unless you’re driving an electric car). It's the single most important thing that provides lubrication and keeps your vehicle's engine running properly, both of which are key to maximizing your car’s longevity. It is highly recommended that you schedule regular oil changes to optimize your gas mileage and keep your engine free of excess dirt particles.

Whether you’re changing your oil yourself, or taking it to a shop to have it changed, every vehicle owner should know how to locate the dipstick and check their car’s oil level. Locating your dipstick is good practice and can help you stay on top of your oil between changes. If you’re unsure how to check your oil, here’s a helpful video that explains how.

Follow the Car Owner's Manual Guide for Oil Changes

Typically, vehicles need an oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. However, every car is different, so you should read your owner's manual and follow its instructions regarding the frequency recommended for your vehicle's oil changes.

If you're changing your engine oil yourself, make sure you know what type of oil to use and how to do it. Review the manufacturer's recommendation on the viscosity that needs to be used. You’ll also need to follow your city's regulations about how to dispose of old oil.

You can also get an oil change at the dealership where you bought your vehicle, a mechanic's shop, or a quick oil change shop. Plan on having your oil filter changed every other time you get an oil change, and have your air filter changed every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. These actions help maintain your vehicle's long-term engine performance.

3) Replace Windshield Wipers When Necessary

Your windshield wipers increase your ability to see during bad weather. Decreased visibility when it's raining, sleeting, or snowing dramatically increases your chances of being involved in an accident.

It's easy to ignore your windshield wipers until it rains. Make it a practice to get your wipers changed (or change them yourself) at every other oil change. This way, you'll be confident that your wipers will work great when you need them.

See if Your Windshield Wipers are Leaving Streaks

Wiper blades should scrape off raindrops cleanly. If you see streaks left behind, this indicates that the wipers are worn and are no longer making uniform contact with your windshield. Streaks signal that it's time to change your wiper blades.

4) Keep Your Car Clean (Including Headlights)

Not only does regularly cleaning your vehicle keep it looking nice, it also keeps it in good condition and maximizes your safety. If your car’s interior is messy, items could slide under your brake pedal or fly off the seat if you brake suddenly—both of which could cause an accident or injuries.

If you don't keep your vehicle's exterior in good condition, the elements could wreak havoc on its condition. Salt from the roads can damage your vehicle's undercarriage during cold weather, and dust and dirt can scratch the paint. Consistently cleaning out your car and washing it keeps it in good condition and keeps you safe.

Consider a Headlight Restoration Kit

When you wash your vehicle (or have it washed), check your headlights. Make sure none of the lights have burned out and that your headlight covers aren't broken or scratched. If they show signs of wear, take them in for headlight restoration.

5) Get Your Brakes Checked Regularly

Making sure your brake system is healthy and working is another crucial part of car maintenance. If your brakes are worn and you find yourself in a situation where you need to brake quickly, they may not be able to stop your car fast enough to avoid an accident.

Know the Warning Signs of a Failing Brake System

When you apply pressure to your brakes, note any squeaking sounds and any shaking from the brake pedal. These are signs that your brakes need to be looked at by a mechanic.

Your brakes may need brake fluid, or the brake pads may need to be changed. If your vehicle has a decent amount of miles on it (between 50,000 and 70,000 miles), your rotors may need replacing.

6) Have Your Vehicle Inspected, Including Belts and Hoses

Small problems within your vehicle can often turn into bigger problems. When you take your vehicle in for regular maintenance, like an oil change, ask the mechanic to inspect the rest of your vehicle for issues. This can help you get ahead of any potential problems before they have a chance to snowball into major issues.

The mechanic should inspect all your vehicle's belts and hoses, the radiator, power steering, transmission fluid, coolant levels, battery, and alternator. They may also offer to replace your spark plugs if it’s needed, which will help your car start more easily.

Take Your Car to a Certified Auto Repair Specialist or Local Mechanic

While you may be able to do some of your car maintenance yourself, taking your car to a certified auto repair specialist or local mechanic is a smart move. If any of your vehicle's notification dashboard lights come on, schedule an appointment with a professional to let them diagnose and treat the problem.

7) Remove Corrosion on Battery Terminals if There’s Buildup

Taking care of your battery is another essential part of vehicle maintenance. A dead battery can suck the life out of your alternator and leave you stranded on the side of the road.

Make sure there's no corrosion on your battery terminals, as it can collect buildup over time that decreases the battery’s ability to function properly.

Create a Baking Soda/Water Solution To Clean Battery Terminals

A baking soda and water mixture is one of the best ways to remove corrosion from your battery terminals. Dip a wire brush into the solution and brush the terminals with the solution until they're free of dirt and debris.

Safe Drivers Save With Insurance Coverage Through Clearcover

These seven car maintenance tips are key to keeping your new car functioning properly and preventing accidents. Your tires, windshield wipers, oil levels, hoses, brake fluid, and car battery need to be checked and maintained to extend your car's life and keep you and your loved ones safe on the road.

Remember to read your owner's manual and make sure you fully understand the manufacturer's recommendations for vehicle maintenance, as what’s best for one car may not be what’s best for yours.

Car insurance adds another layer of security while you’re on the road. While finding good car insurance can feel overwhelming, we believe that it can and should be easy. Get a quick quote with Clearcover and find the coverage that’s best for you today.