Purchasing a car is like a dream to the residents of India, and we end up buying one at some point in life. For most car owners, their vehicle is a symbol of pride and status. Therefore, car maintenance becomes very crucial for the overall functioning of a vehicle and its appearance.

This article will provide you with several advices on car maintenance to help you keep your car as good as a new one.

Following are the top 10 common car maintenance tips that will help you cut the costs of unplanned servicing and repairs –

1. Check and Maintain Tyres

Inspect if the car tyres have adequate pressure in them. This ensures better fuel economy for your vehicle. Checking tyre pressure involves knowing the recommended tyre pressure, inflating and deflating and inspecting the PSI. Furthermore, check the car tyres for tread wear.

2. Check the Engine Oil Level

Inspect if the car's engine oil level is optimum. Engine oil plays an important role in the combustion process by lubricating the engine components. Furthermore, while checking if you see brown dirt residues on engine oil markings on the dipstick, change the engine oil or take the car for service to a garage.

3. Keep an Eye on the Fluids

There are a number of fluids that help in the proper functioning of a car. These fluids include engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid and transmission fluid. If any of these fluids leak, it can affect the overall car functioning.

4. Check the Car Lights

Headlights are the key to your on-road safety while you are driving. A burnt-out or broken bulb can be a severe safety hazard. Furthermore, you might get penalized for not following rules in such a case. If a car's lights are not working, take the car to a professional and figure out if the whole bulb or just the fuse needs replacement.

5. Replace the Windshield Wipers

Worn out or damaged windshield wipers can reduce visibility during a snowstorm or heavy rain. In such a case, make sure to replace the windshield wipers immediately to ensure maximum safety.

6. Change the Air Filter of the Engine

Due to the dusty conditions in India, dust particles accumulate in the air filter of an engine. These dust particles can enter a vehicle's engine and hamper its efficiency if not checked. Check these air filters and replace them, if needed.

7. Check the Car Brakes

Suppose you hear any noise or feel the brake pedals vibrating; it's a sign to get the brake pads checked. In such a case, visit a car workshop and get the issue resolved.

8. Ensure the Timely Servicing of the Car

Regularly servicing your car is one of the best ways for car maintenance. Go to a service centre if you see the engine light turn on. Professional technicians can identify any problem through a vehicle's onboard diagnostics port. A service centre also checks other essential components of a car, such as an alternator and wheel bearings.

9. Review the Car Insurance Policy

After buying a four-wheeler, the next thing you should do is opt for a car insurance policy. These policies ensure that you stay from any possible discrepancy that might happen related to your vehicle. Furthermore, according to the Motor Vehicles Act of 1989, it is mandatory for every vehicle owner to opt for a third-party insurance policy.

10. Check the Spark Plug

A car only starts when the spark plug is working and is in good condition. Do not forget to include this in your regular car maintenance checklist. There are several ways of identifying a faulty spark plug. Some of these ways are – 

• Problems while starting the car 
• Drop-in mileage 
• Increase in vibration and noise
• Uneven acceleration

Here are some essential tips for car maintenance if you are someone who has purchased a car for the first time – 

• Read the user’s manual of your car thoroughly. It is like a bible for your vehicle.
• Watch out for the warning lights on the dashboard.
• Try to keep the car engine as clean as possible to maintain the smooth functioning of the vehicle.
• Check if your car's brakes have an adequate amount of brake fluid.
• Keeping the car in good condition will ensure better mileage of the vehicle.

Following these car maintenance tips have a range of benefits, starting from longevity of the car components to increased fuel economy and safety.