If it is, schedule a trip to the mechanic. Make sure your check engine light isn’t on.Double-check your headlights, taillights and brake lights to make sure they’re in working order.After your vehicle’s monthly scrub down, top off your windshield washer fluid so you don’t get caught on the road with no way to remove grime.Low air pressure can bring unsafe driving conditions, so inflate your tires to proper levels as soon as possible. A car’s tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) will alert you when the air pressure in a tire drops below a certain amount.Driving with burned-out lights is unsafe and illegal.

If a headlight or taillight is out, replace the light and check for blown fuses right away.Don’t reset the check engine light on your own without knowing why it came on in the first place. A mechanic can run diagnostic tests to determine the cause. Anytime your check engine light comes on, it’s time for a visit to the repair shop.In addition to the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations found in your vehicle’s owner’s manual, this basic car maintenance checklist can help you stay on top of the small problems so they don’t turn into big problems. Taking care of your car by performing preventative maintenance helps ensure you have safe and reliable transportation, but with the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it can be easy to forget about routine car maintenance tasks. Your Easy-to-Follow Auto Maintenance Checklist When it’s time to sell or trade in the vehicle, having detailed service records can also help boost its value. In some cases, failing to follow preventative auto maintenance guidelines could void the vehicle’s warranty. Regular maintenance also extends the lifespan of your car by preventing major malfunctions. When your vehicle is well-maintained, you get better gas mileage, a smoother ride and fewer roadside breakdowns. Car maintenance is a crucial part of vehicle ownership.

The ultimate car maintenance checklist