Vehicle Maintenance Checklist

Keeping your car running in tip-top shape requires regular maintenance. Some of these services require a certified mechanic; however, to handle many essential maintenance tasks, you don't need a mechanic. Often, just knowing what needs to be done (and when) is the biggest obstacle. Your owner's manual will have a scheduled list of maintenance tasks necessary to keep your vehicle running its best.

In addition to having your car run well for you, a well-maintained vehicle also carries a higher resale value. And while maintenance tasks can cost you some money, it's usually pennies compared to dollars on what car repairs will cost versus poorly-maintained vehicles.

As mentioned, your owner's manual will have a maintenance schedule specific to your vehicle. Here we have assembled an easy-to-read vehicle maintenance checklist that will link to your vehicle's maintenance schedule.

Regular Checkups

These are vehicle maintenance checkups that should occur pretty regularly.

Oil and Antifreeze Levels

About once a month, or before long trips, you should check the levels of both your oil and your antifreeze/coolant. Remember, you will want to check your coolant levels in the overflow canister with the engine cool to avoid getting burned. Your oil level, on the other hand, should be checked after the engine has been running for 10 minutes or longer. Also, check under your vehicle for any spots of oil or antifreeze.

Oil and Oil Filter Change

The importance of your motor oil cannot be overstated. It lubricates engine components, helps to seal against road debris, helps keep the engine cool, and helps prevent corrosion. Clean motor oil is essential for keeping your vehicle operating in peak condition today and in the future. The rule of thumb for oil changes was 2,000 miles but was changed to three months or 3,000 miles, whichever comes first. Newer vehicles, however, often require less frequent oil changes. It usually falls somewhere between 5,000 and 10,000 miles, depending on the type of oil used. If you are unsure as to which rate applies to your vehicle, check your owner's manual.

Air Filter

The air filter is important because it regulates airflow into your engine, filtering out debris that could cause decreased performance. When your engine's air filter is clean, proper airflow can improve your engine's fuel efficiency, decrease emissions and increase your engine life. The location of the air filter can vary by make and model, so refer to your owner's manual to find where yours is located.

Tire Pressure and Tread

In addition to providing a smoother ride with greater fuel efficiency, properly inflated tires can also be a matter of safety. Test your tire pressure about once a month, before long trips or if you visually notice any of them looking low. Check the spare, too! You don't want to wait until you need the spare tire to discover it needs air. A simple tire pressure gauge, which you can get from any auto parts store and most gas stations, is all you need to check your tire pressure. In winter, the cold weather will affect your tire pressure. A good rule of thumb is that, for every 10-degree drop, you will lose one pound of air pressure in your tires. So, a sudden cold snap could really change your tire pressure. To know what your tire pressure should be, refer to your owner's manual or driver's door post. To ensure you have a safe level of tread on your tires, try the penny method.

Tire Rotation and Balance

There are a number of different factors that can have an effect on your tire tread wear patterns, such as mileage and alignment. In fact, for this reason, your tread wear could be different from side to side or front to back. When you rotate and balance your tires regularly, you help to ensure more even wear across all tires. This can extend the life of your tires and help to prevent road noise and vibration.

Lights and Turn Signals

Properly functioning lights aren't just an issue of convenience. They are also a safety issue and should be checked about once a month. To do so, find a flat surface and turn on your lights. Then walk around your vehicle to ensure they are working properly. Don't forget those turn signals. For brake lights, you'll need a friend, so one of you can depress the brake pedal, and the other can check to make sure the lights are working properly. Brake controller lights are of critical importance because you can't see if they are working properly while you are driving. That alone is a good reason to check them monthly.

Waxing Your Vehicle

If you wax your vehicle about every six months after washing, you can keep the finish looking good and help reduce the deterioration of the paint. The wax forms a shiny seal on your car that can also help protect it against road grit, salt,

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