How to maintain your car properly

You might be a Sunday motorist or commute to and from the office daily, but we all worry over the maintenance of their vehicle so that it runs well and safely. Servicing regularly makes your vehicle run better, saves you fuel and can make your car last longer and reduce the chances of expensive repairs.

Here’s what you need to know in order to take care of your car, the things that you can do on your own and the things that you should leave up to the pros. Whether you are a youth or aged, you will be more comfortable on the road knowing how your car operates and what you need to do for it, and you will avoid the unpleasantness when your car does malfunction.

It involves dedicating enough time to keep your own car up to standards, but it is quite possible with the right knowledge and correct habits. This is how you can keep your car and prevent avoidable breakdowns.

Why car maintenance matters

Car maintenance isn’t just a matter of checking the oil or changing the tyres. It’s all about building long-term routines that have a direct impact on your car’s performance. Keeping your car well-maintained will enable you to:

• Improve fuel efficiency
• Extend engine and brake life
• Make sure road safety
• Maintain resale value
• Reduce environmental impact

Putting car maintenance off may save you some money or time initially, but it will end up costing you more and placing you at higher risk later. Small problems develop into bigger ones, and worn-out tyres or brakes can make you unsafe. Keeping your car well-maintained saves you the money you would have had to spend on surprise repairs and ensures your safety on the road.

How rental companies maintain their fleet

At Europcar, their cars are treated with care and precision so they are as good as new when you need them. From routine checks to expert maintenance, their team works in the background to identify any potential problems early on so you can drive away with confidence. Whether you’re commuting locally or away on a longer journey, you can be sure your vehicle will be at its optimum. Ready for a smooth and stress-free drive? Explore the full range of vehicles available through Europcar’s rental services and book your next ride today.

Know your owner’s manual

Start by reading your owner’s manual prior to any maintenance. Your car’s owner’s manual prescribes its specs—the kind of oil, tyre pressure, service intervals, etc. It’s the one source that can provide the best information on how frequently to carry out key maintenance.

Schedules may differ from make to make and model to model, so don’t go by generic advice. Get to know your vehicle’s recommended service schedule.

Weekly and monthly maintenance tasks

Not all maintenance has to happen at the mechanic’s. With just a few minutes each week or month, you can spot early signs of wear or issues before they become serious problems.

Weekly checklist

• Go around your vehicle. Inspect for leaks, flat tyres, or cracked and broken lights.
• Tyre pressure: Measure it with a gauge. Correct pressure maximizes fuel efficiency and tyre life.
• Lights and warning lights: Ensure all the warning lights are operational.
• Windscreen wash fluid: Refill when running low, more so if you’re motoring during winter or on long journeys.

Monthly tasks

• Oil level: Check the dipstick and add as needed. Fill when the engine is cold.
• Coolant and brake fluid: Ensure fluid levels are between the marked limits.
• Battery condition: Check around the terminals for corrosion and verify connections are tight.
• Belts and hoses: Look for cracks, frays, or loose fittings.

Seasonal maintenance

Changing seasons can take a toll on your vehicle. Prepare your car accordingly with these seasonal checks.

Winter

• Use winter-grade windshield washer fluid
• Check battery health and charge
• Inspect tyre tread and consider switching to winter tyres
• Keep an emergency kit in the car (blanket, scraper, flashlight, etc.)

Summer

• Check air conditioning performance
• Inspect coolant level and radiator hoses
• Ensure tyres are not overinflated due to heat
• Clean or replace cabin air filters

Oil changes: When and why

It lubricates inner parts and does not allow them to overheat. Oil does become dirty and ineffective after a while. So, one of the most critical maintenance activities for a car involves changing your oil.

It varies with your vehicle and the oil type, but normally it should be done every 5,000 – 10,000 kilometres (3,000 – 6,000 miles). Take a look at your handbook or go see your service centre for recommendations.

Change the oil filter and use top-grade motor oil at the same time. Sludge formation and eventual engine failure can result if the oil isn’t changed.

Tyre care: More than just inflation

Tyres are your vehicle’s road contact. Proper tyre maintenance improves handling, braking, and fuel mileage.

Here is how you can maintain them.

• Rotate tyres: Every 8,000–10,000 km (5,000–6,000 miles) to ensure even wear
• If your steering is pulling to one side, alignment may be off
• Tread depth monitoring: Replace tyres when the tread is under 1.6mm (2/32″)
• Inspect for damage: Inspect for embedded objects, cracks, or bulges

Brake system maintenance

Brakes are your car’s most vital safety feature. Listen for warning signs:

• Squealing or grinding noises
• Longer stopping distances
• Brake pedal feels soft or spongy
• Warning light on dashboard

Brake discs and pads wear over time. Inspect them every 20,000–30,000 km (12,000–18,000 miles), depending on how much you drive. Don’t ignore a problem with your brakes—repair them at once.

Battery health

Batteries normally last for 3–5 years. Inspect the battery terminals periodically for corrosion and make sure the battery is securely mounted.

Your car may be in need of a replacement if your engine will only crank slowly or if your headlights are not as bright as they used to be. Measure battery voltage with a multimeter, or have the load test done by your mechanic as a routine service.

Do not leave the electronics or the lights on when the motor is turned off. This is the primary reason for draining batteries.

Air filters

Your air filter stops dirt and dust from entering the combustion chamber. A dirty filter will decrease performance and fuel efficiency.

Inspect it every 15,000–20,000 km (9,000–12,000 miles) and replace it when it appears dirty. A clean filter ensures optimal airflow and correct engine performance.

It also includes the air cabin filter, which impacts the air in your vehicle. Change it every year, or more frequently when you travel in areas with dust.

Wipers and windshield care

Clear vision is critical to secure driving. Wiper blades wear out and need replacing every year at least—or sooner if they streak or skip.

Keep your windshield clean inside and out. Have your reservoir maintained, using winter wash fluid with antifreeze added in the water.

Examine the glass for chips and cracks and have them repaired immediately. Small chips will often be repairable before they spread.

Warning lights and dashboard indicators

Modern cars have sensors to alert you to potential issues. Pay attention to:

• Check engine light
• Oil pressure warning
• Battery warning
• Brake system light
• Tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS)

If the warning light remains on, don’t ignore it. Consult your owner’s manual or get your car checked by an authorised repairman.

Schedule professional inspections

Even when you do much of the maintenance work yourself, professional inspections are worth it. Trained professionals can spot things you might not.

Book a full inspection at least once a year. This usually includes:

• Brake system check
• Suspension and steering review
• Fluid top-ups and changes
• Tyre and wheel inspection
• Lights and electronics test

Monitor services and receipts—it can increase resale value and allow you to track repeat issues.

Save time with car rental when needed

Sometimes your vehicle might be kept in the garage for days. Rather than disrupting your daily routine, you can choose to rent a car. Europcar allows you to stay mobile by offering a wide range of vehicles to suit your needs.

Tips to build better maintenance habits

• Remind yourself: Use your phone or calendar to set reminders for oil changes and inspections
• Remain Organised: Have receipts, service records, and warranties on hand
• Drive smoothly: Sudden stops and hard acceleration wear parts too early
• Listen to your vehicle: New noises, smells, or vibration normally indicate that something is amiss
• Essential skills one should gain: Replacing the wipers, replenishing the fluids, and tyre pressure checks are simple and time-saving

Wrapping up

It’s not a matter of checking the boxes—it’s a matter of having your own car performing well, lasting longer, and doing less harm to the earth. Your own car can still be reliable and fuel-efficient for the ride with some routine maintenance. And when you’re swapping vehicles temporarily, a well-maintained rental car can be the difference between the ride, rather than the logistics.