Experienced drivers know that one of the most important parts of road safety is staying up-to-date with vehicle maintenance. New drivers may not understand the importance of this maintenance. They may think that because their car is running and gets them from point A to point B, that all is well. Usually, the last thing on their mind as they head out the door and turn the key in the ignition is stopping to make sure their tires are in good condition and that the oil is doing its job of lubricating the engine.
To keep their car performing well and keep them safer while out on the road, here are some valuable tips for first-time drivers (no matter the age) to consider:
- Check & Replace Wiper Blades: Wiper blades will wear out over time with exposure to the elements. Worn wiper blades can leave streaks that are difficult to see through and can even scratch the windshield. Replace the blades about every six months.
- Regular Oil Changes: Oil keeps the different components of your engine moving together in harmony with minimal friction. As the miles add up, oil gets dirty and needs to be changed to keep your engine healthy. Check your owner’s manual to find out how often you should change the oil.
- Tires and Wheel Alignment: Tires keep your vehicle connected to the road, allowing you to turn, accelerate, and brake safely. Worn-out tires risk blowing out, don’t handle well and present an increased risk in bad weather. At about every oil change, have your tires rotated. Your wheel alignment should be checked every year to ensure your steering is straight and your tires are rolling perfectly flat with the road for maximum traction and functionality.
- Check Battery Charge: A dead battery can leave you stranded anywhere, anytime, and without any sign of trouble. Some batteries may last as long as five or six years, but it’s not uncommon for batteries to only last around two or three years before needing replacement.
- Replace Worn-Down Brake Pads: Your brakes are responsible for keeping you safe by bringing your vehicle to a stop. Check the thickness of your brake pads every time you rotate your tires and always change them when they start to get too worn.
- Replace Air Filter: The air filter catches the debris out of the air that’s pumped into your engine and will eventually become clogged. Check the air filter at every oil change, and change it about every 15,000 to 20,000 miles.
- Check Hoses & Belts: Many new drivers are probably driving older cars which means that more attention is needed with its maintenance. It is more likely that belts and hoses can break and crack, with catastrophic consequences. Hoses and belts will generally last up to 60,000 miles or more, so check them at every oil change.
- Replace old spark plugs: When one or more spark plugs aren't functioning, your engine has to work harder, causing inconsistent performance. Check them regularly and replace any that are dying or completely burnt out, about every 60,000-75,000 miles, depending on your car.
Remember: If you are a new driver, start making vehicle maintenance a habit so that it will become second nature to check your car on a regular basis.
Need to know more about what are the most important car maintenance items for new drivers? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for more information about vehicle maintenance and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and the surrounding area.
Experienced drivers know that one of the most important parts of road safety is staying up-to-date with vehicle maintenance. New drivers may not understand the importance of this maintenance. They may think that because their car is running and gets them from point A to point B, that all is well. Usually, the last thing on their mind as they head out the door and turn the key in the ignition is stopping to make sure their tires are in good condition and that the oil is doing its job of lubricating the engine.
To keep their car performing well and keep them safer while out on the road, here are some valuable tips for first-time drivers (no matter the age) to consider:
- Check & Replace Wiper Blades: Wiper blades will wear out over time with exposure to the elements. Worn wiper blades can leave streaks that are difficult to see through and can even scratch the windshield. Replace the blades about every six months.
- Regular Oil Changes: Oil keeps the different components of your engine moving together in harmony with minimal friction. As the miles add up, oil gets dirty and needs to be changed to keep your engine healthy. Check your owner’s manual to find out how often you should change the oil.
- Tires and Wheel Alignment: Tires keep your vehicle connected to the road, allowing you to turn, accelerate, and brake safely. Worn-out tires risk blowing out, don’t handle well and present an increased risk in bad weather. At about every oil change, have your tires rotated. Your wheel alignment should be checked every year to ensure your steering is straight and your tires are rolling perfectly flat with the road for maximum traction and functionality.
- Check Battery Charge: A dead battery can leave you stranded anywhere, anytime, and without any sign of trouble. Some batteries may last as long as five or six years, but it’s not uncommon for batteries to only last around two or three years before needing replacement.
- Replace Worn-Down Brake Pads: Your brakes are responsible for keeping you safe by bringing your vehicle to a stop. Check the thickness of your brake pads every time you rotate your tires and always change them when they start to get too worn.
- Replace Air Filter: The air filter catches the debris out of the air that’s pumped into your engine and will eventually become clogged. Check the air filter at every oil change, and change it about every 15,000 to 20,000 miles.
- Check Hoses & Belts: Many new drivers are probably driving older cars which means that more attention is needed with its maintenance. It is more likely that belts and hoses can break and crack, with catastrophic consequences. Hoses and belts will generally last up to 60,000 miles or more, so check them at every oil change.
- Replace old spark plugs: When one or more spark plugs aren't functioning, your engine has to work harder, causing inconsistent performance. Check them regularly and replace any that are dying or completely burnt out, about every 60,000-75,000 miles, depending on your car.
Remember: If you are a new driver, start making vehicle maintenance a habit so that it will become second nature to check your car on a regular basis.
Need to know more about what are the most important car maintenance items for new drivers? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for more information about vehicle maintenance and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and the surrounding area.
