YOUR car comprises a complicated set of intricate components which needs attention and maintenance to function properly. In this article, we have curated a list of simple car checks which should be carried out regularly to help prevent a breakdown.

Take a look at the list below!

1. Fuel

One of the most simple and obvious checks that you can do is to have a look at the fuel level before starting on a long journey. It is a very common sight to see cars stranded in the middle of the highway as they have consumed the fuel, and there is no relief nearby. Even though it is one of the most essential fluids to keep the machine running, it is often also the most ignored one.

Many car owners also start their car from hibernation, particularly after the winters, only to run the car on the old fuel that has been sitting for more than a month. Fuel, like almost every other thing, comes with an expiry date, and it is advised to use a fuel stabilizer before waking the beast from sleep.

In case, you have a hybrid or electric car, make sure the battery is fully charged before you start riding.

2. Car Fluids

The most essential fluid to keep your car running is Fuel; which we have already discussed above. However, your car is made up of different, intricate, moving parts that are interconnected and run together to keep everything functioning. For smooth operation, the fluids running through the vehicle should be ample to avoid any kind of friction or mishap.

The engine oil, being the more important of all the fluids, should be regularly checked using the dipstick method. If you see it changing colour, it might be time to change the oil. However, in most cases, the engine oil only needs to be topped up from time to time. Apart from this, brake fluid, steering fluids, transmission, coolant, antifreeze, screen washer, etc needs to be topped up and maintained at all times. To avoid an unprecedented breakdown, it is important to keep an eye on the fluids that make your drive a smooth and efficient one.

And if you notice any leak or quick depletion from anywhere, it might be time to get your car checked through a professional eye.

3. Tyres

Tyres are a crucial aspect of every vehicle, and as they are evidently loaded with responsibilities, it is always a good idea to keep an eye on their pressure, tread, and alignment. They are closely related to the overall safety of your car and the people inside, and a slight offset in the tyres can be lethal, if not dangerous for everyone around. In fact, if an issue arises, your vehicle is deemed useless until you fix it and move forward.

The pressure of the tyre has to be maintained as per the manufacturer’s recommendation to ensure the smooth running of the car. To avoid a breakdown, simply check the pressure using a pressure gauge, which can be obtained from any auto shop. An under-pressured tyre can be at risk of a blowout, and leave you stranded in the middle of the road. You can top-up the pressure at any local garage.

The next thing to keep a lookout for is the wear and tear, and treads as these aspects ensure maximum handling, braking, and efficiency. A worn-out tyre may not be able to control the car in case of sharp turns, sudden brakes, slipping accidents, etc. The general idea is to replace the tyres before a long journey if the tread is between 1.6mm to 3 mm.

Additionally, check your vehicle for wheel alignment issues to ensure the car turns where you want it to turn.

4. Brakes

Brakes are another very essential component of a car, without which we would not be able to halt when we want. Any malfunctioning in the brakes makes for a dangerous and unsafe ride, and none of us wants that. If you’re looking to stay away from breakdowns, it is very essential to keep a close look at the working of the brakes.

Start by taking a look at the brake fluid level. Make sure you’re wearing gloves and taking the necessary precautions as the fluid is corrosive. Once done, the next step is to notice the brake pads. Since the pads are always under some kind of stress and pressure, they are susceptible to wear and tear, which leads to their inefficiency. If they are extremely worn out or make a screeching sound every time, it is time for a change.

Additionally, you should also take a look at the brake disc as they can start to rust and corrode. This would lead to stiff hand brakes and failure to brake. If you’re not well-versed with the brake system, you might want to take it to a mechanic.

5. Exhaust System

Often overlooked, the exhaust system performs a vital function to ensure the smooth functioning of the car. It diverts the harmful exhaust fumes away from the engine, thereby, warranting a well-functioning engine. If the exhaust isn’t working right, it can seriously damage the engine. Moreover, the carbon monoxide build-up in the passenger cabin can be deadly, and therefore is a safety hazard.

An efficient exhaust system reduces emission, improves fuel economy, and enhances the life of your engine. If you’re taking your car for a long road trip, ensure to opt for an exhaust repair at your local garage.

6. Filters

Your car is a complicated machine woven together with different parts, mechanism, and dependency. One of the most overlooked components is the filters. Even though they require cleaning and changing on a regular basis, most of us tend to ignore them until there arises a problem. For smooth and uninterrupted performance, it is essential to have them changed and cleaned as per the timeline suggested by the manufacturer.

If the air filters in the engine choke up, they will not only reduce the fuel efficiency but can also limit the performance of the engine. You can easily change them at home, but if you’re not sure, a local garage can also do the job. If you haven’t cleaned them in a while, you must. And if you have not changed the filters for over a year, it is time for it!

Investing in high-quality car components, including air filters, is vital for maintaining a vehicle’s efficiency, performance, and longevity. When it comes to part replacement, considering various options, such as Mammoth performance parts, and weighing them against both quality and cost can be a strategic approach. It’s essential to explore and analyze diverse offerings in the market to ensure that the selected parts serve the well-being of your vehicle comprehensively. This neutral perspective enables consumers to make informed decisions that align with their specific needs and budget constraints.

7. Battery

The battery is an essential part that allows the engine to do its job. Like any other component, it is subjected to pressure and work which leads to its wear and tear. The battery life is approximately measured at 4 years, however, a few cars may see a decrease in battery life due to inefficient performance.

If you find that your vehicle is having a hard time starting up, it might be time to check the batteries. If your batteries are coming to the end of their life, avoid going on long trips. You should also not keep the car sitting in the garage for too long without even starting the engine, as this would lead to a shortening of the battery’s lifespan.

8. Interior and Exterior

A clean car is always a great idea. If you’re leaving the car for the day, make sure you take all the food wrappers, and non-essential items out. It is also very important to indulge in regular interior cleaning sessions, including foot mats, dashboards, seats, etc.

To protect the exterior bit, you can keep the car protected in the garage away from dust, moss, rust, and more. However, if you don’t own a garage, you can always make use of a vehicle cover.

With this, we come to an end to our article on simple car checks. For more such content, keep watching this space.