Inspect your exhaust pipe and system for cracks or holes.Replace your windshield wipers if they are worn or leave streaks.Check your battery for corrosion and clean the contacts.Inspect brakes to be sure they are not worn or wearing unevenly.Inspect your oil, looking for telling changes (muddiness, murkiness, etc).Be sure all hoses are tightly fastened and undamaged.Inspect your timing and serpentine belts, and replace when necessary.Check your fluid levels (antifreeze, power steering, coolant, wiper fluid), and add more when needed.Check the air pressure in your tires, and add more when needed.Check that your headlights, brake lights, and turn signals are working properly.Now let’s review the list… Preventative Auto Maintenance Checklist Be sure to keep an eye on your vehicle’s mileage as well, so that you know when to schedule your next appointment. Juggling all of these tasks can be tricky if you’re not organized, so it’s important that you keep track of your vehicle’s maintenance, whether you use handwritten notes, an Excel document, or even a handy app on your phone.

To get started, review the preventative auto maintenance checklist below.Ĭars are complex, so it should come as no surprise that they must undergo a variety of maintenance to stay safe and healthy. No joke! Plus, it can help you avoid a terrible fate: getting stuck in the middle of nowhere with a broken-down car. As a matter of fact, spending a little money on maintenance now could save you thousands in the future. However, keeping track of your car’s condition and scheduling regular preventative maintenance is probably the best thing a car owner can do to extend the life of their car, save money on future repairs, and prevent dangerous mechanical failures. We know that auto maintenance can feel like a nuisance (yet another task to add to your to-do list!), and the rewards are not always immediately apparent.

Preventative car maintenance checklist