Daily Car Maintenance Checklist

Before You Roll: Your Road-Ready Checklist

1. Inspect Tyre Pressure and Condition:
   • Check Tyre Pressure: Use a gauge to ensure all tyres, including the spare, are inflated to the recommended pressure, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s door jamb.
   • Examine Tyre Condition: Look for signs of wear, such as uneven tread or cuts, and ensure the tread depth is at least 1.6 mm.
   • Inspect Wheel Bolts: Check for any signs of looseness in the wheel bolts.
2. Check Lights and Indicators:
   • Turn on all your lights, including headlights, taillights, brake lights, and indicators, and check that they are functioning correctly.
3. Check and Top Up Fluids:
   • Check the levels of your engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windscreen washer fluid.
   • You can usually find the dipsticks and reservoirs for these fluids in the bonnet.  
4. Inspect Battery:
   • Look for any signs of corrosion on the battery terminals.
   • If you find any, clean them with a wire brush and baking soda paste.
5. Inspect Belts and Hoses:
   • Inspect the serpentine belt (the main belt running across several pulleys) for any signs of cracks, fraying, or glazing (shiny spots). Ensure it has slight give but isn’t loose.
   • Check all visible hoses (such as the radiator and coolant hoses) for cracks, bulges, or leaks.
6. Quick Exterior Wash and Wax (if time permits):
   • Take a few minutes to do a basic rinse, wash and wax.
7. Clean Windscreen and Mirrors:
   • Use a glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to remove dirt, smudges, and bug splatters from your windscreen. This improves visibility and safety.
   • Wipe away dust and mystery smudges from the side mirrors.
8. Wipe Down and Inspect Wiper Blades:
   • Lift each wiper arm off the windscreen and inspect the rubber blades for cracks, tears, or stiffness.
   • Use a damp cloth to wipe down the rubber blades, removing any dirt or debris that could affect their performance.
9. Clean the Interior:
   • Take a few minutes to tidy up the interior of your car by removing any trash or clutter. This can help prevent unpleasant odours and create a more comfortable driving environment.
10. Test Your Brakes:
    • While driving, the pedal should feel firm, not spongy, and the car should stop smoothly without pulling to one side.
    • Listen for any squeaking, grinding, or clicking noises when you apply the brakes; these sounds can indicate worn brake pads, damaged rotors, or other issues.

Checking Your Emergency Kit

An emergency kit is a must-have for every driver, providing critical support in unexpected situations like a flat tyre, dead battery, or getting stuck in bad weather. Spending just a few minutes once in a while to check and replenish your emergency kit can make a significant difference when you need it most.

Inspect the Contents:

1. Open your emergency kit and ensure that all essential items are present and in good condition.
2. Common items to include are a first-aid kit, torch with extra batteries, tyre pressure gauge, jumper cables, basic tools (like screwdrivers and wrenches), reflective warning triangles, and a portable air compressor.

Check Expiration Dates:

1. If your kit includes items with expiration dates, such as first-aid supplies or bottled water, make sure they’re still within their useable period.
2. Replace any expired items with new ones.

Restock Essential Items:

1. If you’ve used any items from your emergency kit, such as bandages or fuses, make sure to restock them.
2. Consider adding additional items based on the season, such as a blanket for cold weather, or extra water for summer.

Daily Driving Habits: Fuel Efficiency and Safety

Your driving habits can significantly impact your car’s performance and longevity. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Avoid Overloading: Carrying excessive weight can strain your car’s engine and suspension. Avoid overloading your vehicle, especially when towing or carrying heavy cargo.
• Warm Up the Engine: Allow your car to warm up for a few minutes before driving, especially in cold weather. This helps to lubricate the engine components and prevent excessive wear and tear.
• Smooth Acceleration and Braking: Avoid sudden acceleration, braking, and turning. These actions can put unnecessary stress on your car’s components and reduce fuel efficiency.
• Proper Shifting: If you drive a car with a manual gearbox, shift gears smoothly and at the appropriate RPMs.
• Avoid Idling: Excessive idling can waste fuel and increase engine wear. If you need to wait, turn off the engine if it’s safe to do so.  
• Plan Your Routes: Consider traffic patterns and road conditions when planning your routes. This can help you avoid congestion and reduce fuel consumption.

Additional Tips for Extended Life

• Read your owner’s manual: Your owner’s manual contains valuable information about your car’s maintenance schedule and specific requirements.
• Follow your car’s recommended maintenance schedule. This will help you stay on top of important maintenance tasks and prevent problems.  
• Address Warning Lights Promptly: If your car’s dashboard lights up with a warning, don’t ignore it. Consult your owner’s manual or a mechanic to determine the cause and address the issue promptly.

Before you hit the road, don’t forget to grab your driver’s license and wallet, check the fuel gauge, and ensure your phone battery is charged. Keeping a charger in your car is essential in today’s digital age.

Spending just 15 minutes each day on these simple car maintenance tasks can greatly improve your vehicle’s performance, safety, and longevity. By catching potential issues early, you’ll save on costly repairs and enjoy a smoother, safer drive.

Remember, while these daily tips are helpful, it’s crucial to follow your vehicle’s recommended service schedule and have regular professional inspections. Combining professional maintenance with these quick DIY checks will keep your car in top condition for years to come.