Is there anything I can do between services to help protect my car from major breakdowns or mishaps? This is a question I am asked most often by car owners. Car manufacturers usually include a section of little things you can do as a consumer to help maintain your vehicle in the owner’s manual. Unfortunately these manuals aren’t written by Stephen King and are the least bit entertaining and sometimes even overwhelming. Fortunately, there are 5 simple steps you can take to protect your car.

5 Simple Steps to Protect Your Car

1.Do a walk-around – Every time you plan to drive your car, do a quick walk-around to potentially spot any dangers. Most importantly take notice of your tire pressure and ensure that none of the tires are low or have any unusual objects in them. Also, check for any possible fluid leaks. The walk-around also provides you with an opportunity to see if any damage was recently caused to your vehicle, which will help you determine when and where the damage occurred.

2.Check tire pressure – If you are performing step one then you should only have to do this about once a month. There should be a sticker in the driver’s side door jamb that has the auto manufacturers recommended pressure. Parts stores such as AutoZone have inexpensive tire pressure gauges and a trained staff to show you how to use it. Or you can drive up to any automotive repair or tire shop and have it done accurately and for free in minutes.

3.Check the vehicles fluid levels – Once again this can be done yourself or by a local auto shop for free and within minutes. Under the hood you should have access to the engine oil, automatic transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, washer fluid and coolant dipsticks and reservoirs. Pull the dipstick and wipe it off then re-dip it to verify the proper level. For some reservoirs just verify the level is in between the markings. If they are low visit your local auto service shop where most offer a free top-off. If the brake fluid is significantly low, your brake pads may be worn out so have your brakes inspected immediately. Be sure the proper fluids are going in the proper places. For example, not all vehicles take the same coolant, engine oil, etc.

4.Observe changes in drivability – Take notice of any changes in what should be a smooth ride. A vehicle that has a steering wheel shake at 60 mph may need the tires re-balanced or potentially have a separated tire tread. If your car pulls in one direction or the other on the highway it may be a sign of an alignment issue. If anything seems even a little off then write down the changes and visit your local mechanic immediately.

5.Keep your eyes and ears open – Lastly, like step four, keep your ears open for any strange squeaks, moans, groans, and clunks coming from your car when driving and going over bumps. If not resolved, these could lead to bigger problems. Also, if any of your dash warning lights go on you should immediately seek your mechanic for help. Those indicators mean that there is something important wrong or about to go wrong on your vehicle.