7 Things Every Driver Should Remember

Dec 1, 2022 | Advice

Written by Arnie Draiman

You don’t need to be a mechanic in order to drive a car – in fact, you don’t have to know very much about how a car works in order to drive one well. But there are several things that every driver should do on a regular basis to keep their car running well for years to come. 

Some of the following are quite simple to do and can be done at home, while others are best left to the professionals.

All of the below are general rules to follow, and some do not apply to electric vehicles. Please check your owner’s manual for more accurate information. Similar to any other professional advice, it is always a good idea to consult with your LAM (local authorized mechanic).

And remember, regular maintenance is less expensive than any repair.

1. Check the oil at regular intervals – once a month is a good rule to follow. While you’re filling up with gas, pop the hood, pull out the oil dipstick, wipe it clean, put it back in. Then, pull it out again and look at the stick to see if the oil level is between the “low” and “full” lines. If so, you’re good to go. If it is below the “low”, put in a quart of oil.

2. Change your oil – some do it at home, but most prefer any of the “oil change” places. They will empty your dirty oil, and refill the engine with all new oil. They will also change your oil filter, too. This is usually done every 7,500 miles or so (some cars every 10,000 miles). And if you don’t drive a lot, then every 6 months is a good rule to follow.

3. Check the radiator water and coolant levels at regular intervals – every 3-4 months is good. In most cars, you never need to open the radiator cap itself, because there’s a plastic container that is hooked up to the radiator. Just fill the plastic container as needed. In most climates, plain water is fine in a pinch, but radiator coolant is always better.

4. Change transmission and differential oils – this is usually done about every 30,000 miles (every 2 years or so) and is usually done as part of a regular maintenance service.

5. Brake fluid – should be checked at every oil change. And should be changed every 30,000 miles.

5.  Check your brakes – they should be inspected every 6 months (with every oil change), and change the brake pads every 10,000-12,000 miles.

6.  Check your tires! You can do a simple visual check every time you get into your car. Just walk around and see if all four look normal. About once a month, however, you should check the air pressure with a gauge. The amount to fill is listed inside your driver’s door (when you open the door, there is a sticker – the usual number is about 35). And you can fill your tires with air at most gas stations.

And lastly, about tires, you want to check the treads and make sure they are deep enough to grip the road. Take a penny and insert it so Lincoln’s head is inside. If most of his head is covered, then the treads are deep enough. If you can see his entire head, buy new tires! The depth should be approximately 1.5 mm. In Israel you can use a 10 agorot coin and the State of Israel emblem should be about halfway covered. 

Here are some additional suggestions that most people don’t think of but can also  seriously affect the condition of your car.

a)    Clean your vehicle, inside and out. About once a week or every 10 days. Professional waxing is a good idea, about every 3-4 months. Dirt, grime, and road oil accumulation can act like sandpaper and wear down your paint quicker than you might think.

b)    Protect your car from the weather if you live in an area with severe conditions. Park inside if you can, or buy a cover if you tend to park outdoors

c)    Clean your battery – use an old toothbrush and just scrub around the connectors where some acid build-up tends to occur.

d)    Smog and emissions testing – as per your state’s requirements (often it is done annually as part of the registration process for license plate renewals).

d)    Always carry a liter or liter-and-a-half bottle of tap water in your car for emergencies.

Lastly, things to listen for and get checked out right away:

  •       If you hear a squeaky sound every time you touch the brakes

  •       If there is a burning smell that comes after braking, or after driving for more than a few minutes

  •       If the brake pedal takes too long to return to its original position after you’ve stepped on it

  •       And if the brakes take too long to stop your car

  •       If your parking brake seems very loose

Please take all of these very seriously – it is good for your car, and good for your safety!

There are several things that every driver should do on a regular basis to keep their car running well for years to come.

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