13 Car maintenance tips to remember

Many Canadians are delaying maintenance to their vehicles for the same reason they are holding on to their cars longer: it can seem expensive and not an economic necessity¹. It may seem easier to skip your routine service, however, delaying vehicle maintenance can lead to more expensive and time-consuming repairs in the future. 

Here are 13 car maintenance tips to optimize your car's performance, prevent expensive repairs and improve safety on the road.

1. Change your oil: This will keep your engine running smoothly, prevent wear and tear, and improve gas mileage. In most cases, you should get your oil changed every 5,000 kilometres. Check your car's maintenance schedule for details.

2. Monitor your tire pressure: Keep your tires properly inflated, especially during seasonal changes. Lower temperatures can reduce your tire pressure in the fall as the air contracts. Always keep your tires inflated to the correct pressure (psi) for your car. You can find this information in your owner’s manual or on the sticker inside your driver's side doorjamb.

3. Rotate your tires: Regular rotation extends life, improves traction, and reduces road noise. Most experts recommend rotating tires every 8,000-12,000 kilometres.

4. Wash your car regularly: Cleaning the outside of your car helps prevent rust and other harmful buildup. Washing your car is especially important if you live in a snowy climate, as road salt can collect on your car's exterior and damage your paint.

5. Replace your wiper blades: Worn or damaged wiper blades can impair your ability to see the road. If your windshield wipers leave streaks, squeak, or do not clear the windshield properly, replace them.

6. Check your fluid levels: When you get your oil changed, check your brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid and washer fluid. Fluid monitoring is essential for your car's safety, performance and longevity. For example, low or contaminated brake fluid can affect the efficiency of your brakes and lead to accidents.

7. Check your brakes: Have your brakes checked regularly to prevent small issues from becoming serious safety hazards. Even minor problems with your brakes can lead to an accident.

8. Replace your air filters: To improve the air quality inside your car, replace your air and cabin filters regularly, aiming for every 25,000-50,000 kilometers.

9. Test your car’s HVAC system: Ensure your air conditioning and heater work properly to keep you and your passengers comfortable year-round.

10. Check your battery: Check your battery regularly to prevent unexpected breakdowns. Signs of a failing battery include slow engine cranking, dim headlights and the need for frequent jump-starts.

11. Heed dashboard warning lights: If a warning light appears, get it checked out immediately. Ignoring it could lead to a more costly repair down the road or sooner than you think.

12. Check your lights: Check all your car's lights regularly, including your headlights, brake lights and turn signals. A defective brake light is a serious driving hazard (not to mention a violation that could result in a ticket).

13. Keep your car covered: Park your car in a garage whenever possible. If you don't have a garage, use a car cover to shield your vehicle from the sun and other harmful elements.

Make sure you have the right insurance for your vehicle

Whether you’re an everyday commuter or an occasional driver. Having the right insurance can help you when it matters most. Request a quote from an Orbit insurance broker to see what kinds of coverage best suits your needs.