Caring for your car is important, especially if you want it to last a long time. You can do many things at home to keep your car in good condition.

This blog post will discuss some of the most important things that you can do to maintain your car.

6 Things You Can Do To Maintain Your Car

1. Keep Your Car in a Garage

Keeping your car in a garage is one of the best things you can do to protect its exterior from environmental damages. It also can prevent car parts from freezing over if you live in a cold climate.

Furthermore, if your car is in an open space, it is more vulnerable to vandals and thieves. Storing your car in a garage helps reduce the chances of your car being purposefully damaged or broken into.

2. Checking the Oil

One thing that you should always look out for is your car's oil levels. It can be easy for your vehicle to run out of oil if you are not paying attention, especially if you drive a lot or have an older car.

To check your car's oil level:
  1. Park your car on a flat surface, and the engine is cold.
  2. Lift the hood of your car and locate the car's dipstick.
  3. Pull out the dipstick and wipe any oil onto a cloth.
  4. Reinsert the dipstick all the way, then pull it out and examine where the oil level is on the dipstick.
  5. Two-level markers on the dipstick should identify where the oil level should be sitting. If it is above the top level, there is too much oil in your car. Furthermore, if below the bottom marker, your vehicle needs more oil.
  6. Top up your vehicle's oil level if required.

3. Change The Window Wiper Blades

Changing your window wiper Blades yourself can save you money in the long run, and it's a straightforward task to do!
  1. Purchase window wiper blades from a car supplies store. If you are unsure of which blades to purchase, a store team member should be able to help you out.
  2. Once you have the new blades, lift the wipers as if you were washing your windshield.
  3. Unclip the detachable wiper's mechanism and replace it with the new blade.

4. Refilling The Water Tank

One thing that often gets forgotten about when it comes to car maintenance, but is just as important, is refilling the water tank. This needs to be done especially in the summertime, as the high temperatures can cause the water to evaporate quickly.

To refill your car’s water tank, all you will need is some water and a funnel.
  1. Open up the hood of your car and locate the water cap. This is usually identifiable as a round or square cap with “H20” written on it or a windshield graphic.
  2. Twist it counterclockwise until it pops off, then set it aside.
  3. Using the funnel, slowly pour in the water until it is full, then replace the lid.

5. Change The Coolant.

Coolant is important as it stops your engine from overheating. It is usually green or orange in colour. However, if it has turned brown, there is rust or unknown debris in the liquid, the car should be taken to a mechanic. The coolant should be replaced every year or two, depending on how much you drive your vehicle.

To change your car's coolant:
  1. Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface turned off, and the engine is cold.
  2. Locate the coolant tank under your vehicle's hood and carefully remove the cap.
  3. Place a large bucket under your car and open the coolant nozzle underneath your vehicle to release the old coolant.
  4. Empty any remaining coolant from the inside tank if needed.
  5. Close the nozzle and refill the coolant tank with the fresh coolant.
  6. Reattach the coolant tank cap, and you are good to go!
6. Stay Up-to-Date with Car Services

While there is a lot you can do at home, having a specialist check over your vehicle every six months or $10,000 km can help you avoid big issues down the line.

If you live in Perth and own a Mercedes Benz, Stuttgart's Mercedes Service Perth can help keep your vehicle in perfect condition.