Keeping up with routine vehicle maintenance is essential for ensuring your car runs smoothly and reliably for years to come. While some maintenance and repairs are best left to the professionals, there are several easy items you can take care of yourself with minimal tools or mechanical knowledge. Here are five DIY vehicle maintenance tasks to stay on top of:
- Check and top off fluids. Regularly check your oil, coolant, power steering, and brake fluid levels and top them off if they're low.
- Check tire pressure. Properly inflated tires provide better traction, handling, and fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure monthly.
- Replace wiper blades. If your wiper blades are cracked, torn, or leaving streaks, it's time for new ones. Changing the blades is a quick and easy process.
- Change the engine air filter. Check your air filter every six months and replace it when it gets dirty. A clean filter helps your engine run more efficiently.
- Maintain the battery. Keep the battery terminals clean and free of corrosion. If you spot white, powdery residue, clean it off with a wire brush.
For anything beyond these basic maintenance items, it's best to schedule an appointment at a trusted service center like the one at Ford of Columbia.