Learn the basics of DIY car maintenance with our handy checklist of both short and long-term checks to help you keep your vehicle in good condition, and hopefully save you some cash along the way.
Even if cars aren’t your thing, there are still a lot of basic car maintenance checks that can be done by a beginner.
Short-term DIY car maintenance checklist
How to check oil levels
This is one of those things that should be checked regularly – ideally once a month, or more often if you’ve got an older car or one with past issues.
Make sure your car is parked on flat ground, and the engine has been off for at least fifteen minutes.
Pull out the oil dipstick (usually a coloured circular handle near your engine, though check your owner’s manual if you’re unsure), wipe it clean, and dip it a second time to get a read on the level. Wherever the oil reaches indicates your current oil level.
If it’s lower than it should be, you can top it up easily. Just grab a funnel, open your oil filter (usually the cap on top of the engine) and slowly start filling it up. Go bit by bit here – you don’t want to overfill, as that leads to a whole different set of issues.
After each pour, give it a few minutes to drain through. That way, you get accurate measurements with the dipstick.
How to check coolant levels
Coolant stops your engine from overheating. Because it gets used up as you drive you’ll want to adapt how often you check it, but a good rule is once or twice a month.
Again, you’ll want your car on level ground and to have been turned off for a few minutes.
Find the container with brightly coloured liquid in it – usually it’s green – and simply check the level against the ‘maximum’ line on the outside.
How to check air filter
The air filter keeps particles out of the engine, and should be changed every 12-18 months or 10,000km-15,000km.
Remove the air filter’s lid, then take out the old air filter. Clean the space with a rag, then pop the new one in. Make sure it’s aligned on both sides before you reattach the lid.
How to check tyre pressure
As the main points of contact between your car and the road, you should check the pressure of your tyres once or twice a month. Poor pressure affects not just handling, but also how much fuel you burn through.
If you’ve got an air compressor, you can do this at home. Otherwise, you’ll need to drive to a nearby servo – but don’t drive too far as it’s best to check your tyres when they’re cold, and driving warms them up.
Find your car’s recommended tyre pressure, which should be on the driver’s side door frame, in the fuel door, glove box or car’s manual. Then it’s as simple as hooking up the compressor until the numbers match.
How to check tyre tread depth
The tread on your tyres affects your cars handing, and anything equal to or under 1.5mm is illegal in Australia.
Most new tyres have tread wear indicators, so you just need to check for those indicator bars moulded in the grooves. Generally, any tyres older than five years should be checked annually by a pro in case they need refitting.
How to rotate tyres
Extending the lifespan of your tyres can be done by rotating them at regular intervals to minimise uneven wear. This is exactly what it sounds like – just move your front tyres to the rear, and the rear tyres to the front.
How to check your vehicle’s lights (headlights, indicator, break and reverse)
Your vehicle’s lights are essential for keeping you and everyone else on the road safe.
While there’s no stone-set commandments on how often these should be inspected, it’s a good idea to routinely check they’re all working. This includes:
- headlights
- indicators (front and back)
- brakes, and
- reverse lights.
Remember to keep a clean vehicle
Don’t underestimate the value of keeping your car clean! It can make it less likely to rust, which then prevents even more serious damage from occurring over time.
Plus, dirt and dust settling in the interior can make you and your passengers more susceptible to falling ill, which nobody wants.
Long-term DIY car maintenance checks
How to check your battery terminals
To avoid being stuck with a car that won’t start, it’s a good idea to check the terminals on your car battery for corrosion or damage every six months.
Disconnect your battery first, and in the right order – but remember to never touch them both at the same time. First, remove the grounded terminal’s clamp – that’s the one wired to the body of the car or engine. Next, remove the ungrounded one.
Minor corrosion can be cleaned easily with a wire brush. Keeping on top of it with periodic checks helps to ensure it doesn’t get to a stage of there being serious damage. If there is, the terminal may need to be replaced, and you may need to visit a mechanic to get that done.
How to check your defroster grid
A defroster grid is the lines that run across your rear windshield. They generate heat to remove fog and melt ice in colder weather.
If you notice your windows aren’t de-fogging correctly, a fuse may have blown. In that case, your specific owner’s manual should have the info on how to check and replace it.
If it’s not the fuse, you may be able to paint over the broken line with conductive paint. It’s important to ensure you lay down masking tape so you don’t cover the rearview windshield, and to clean the area first to remove any debris.
How to check transmission fluid
This one’s easier to check for an automatic car. It’s like checking oil levels, but with a red dipstick (usually, but check your owner manual if unsure).
Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, and insert it again to check its level.
For a manual car, there’s usually no dipstick. Instead, you’ll need a jack to lift the car so you can check the filler plugs underneath the vehicle. Because of this, it can be easier to leave this one to a pro at servicing time.
How to check spark plugs
Spark plugs rarely need frequent replacement, but it’s a good idea to check them annually. Inspect them if your engine light turns on, starting is difficult, or acceleration is slow.
Remove the spark plugs and look for signs of wear or damage, then you can replace them if needed.
Shocks and struts
This one is also probably better suited to a professional than an at-home job. Be sure to keep an eye out for some telltale signs to book in a check-up.
If you notice any issues with your suspension while you’re driving around, like uneven bouncing, knocking noises, or if you spot leaking fluid around the shock absorbers when parked, it might be time for a service.
Shocks and struts are specifically responsible for keeping your ride smooth, so if it’s getting bumpy then consider moving up your inspection.
How to check your drive belt
Your drive belt plays a crucial role in powering important components like the alternator and water pump. Over time, it can wear out or crack, which could lead to breakdowns.
To check it, open your car’s bonnet and locate the belt. It’s usually a black rubber strip around some pulleys. Look carefully for any signs of cracking, fraying or shiny glazing on the belt’s surface.
Also, press gently on the belt to see if it feels too loose or too tight, since either could signal a problem. If you notice any damage, it’s best to have it replaced to avoid unexpected repairs.
Front or rear differential
The differential is what allows your wheels to turn at different speeds, especially when you’re cornering. It’s vital for smooth handling and tyre longevity.
To keep it in good shape, regularly check the fluid level, as this lubricates the gears inside. Look under your car for any signs of leaking fluid near the front or rear differential.
You might also hear unusual noises like grinding or clunking if there’s an issue. If you spot leaks or hear strange sounds, take your car to a mechanic for an inspection to keep your drive safe and smooth.
How to replace windshield wipers
If your wipers leave streaks, make squeaky noises, or struggle to clear your windscreen, it’s time for a replacement.
To do this yourself, lift the wiper arm away from the windscreen, then carefully unclip the old blade. Attach the new wiper blade until you hear a click, ensuring it’s secure.
Battery performance check
Regularly check your battery to avoid starting issues. If your car struggles to start or the battery is old, consider a charger to improve performance. If the battery fails, you can always schedule a check in with your mechanic and they can replace it.
Also, inspect the battery case for swelling or cracks, which indicate it’s time for a replacement.
How to change tyres
First, find a safe, flat spot and switch on your hazard lights.
Before lifting the car, slightly loosen the lug nuts on the flat tyre. Then, use a jack to raise the car off the ground. Remove the loosened lug nuts completely and take off the flat tyre.
Replace it with your spare tyre, making sure it sits flush on the hub. Tighten the lug nuts by hand in a crisscross pattern for even pressure. Lower the car back down, then fully tighten the nuts with your wrench.
Add car insurance to your checklist
Beyond the upkeep of your vehicle, it may be a good time to consider if you need car insurance.
Bingle offers Comprehensive Car Insurance and Third Party Property Damage Car Insurance. Both cover accidental loss or damage to other people’s cars and property (caused by the use of your car), but only Comprehensive Car Insurance will cover accidental loss or damage to your vehicle up to its market value.