We probably dont have to tell you that this is a bad idea.
Lets clear that up, and give you some tips thatll apply to any vehicle.
With your car, that can save you thousands.
First, read your owners manual
Pay attention to your owners manual.
double-check all your lights are working.
Listen for any strange sounds, inside and out.
see to it your tires have enough tread.
You canuse a penny to do it, orlook out for the wear indicators on the tire treads.
If anythings out of the ordinary, dont ignore it.
Learn to check your fluids.
If youre running low, add more (if you could) or get it changed.
Most importantly,never ignore a leak.
Inspect and get your timing and serpentine belts replaced when necessary.
Again, your owners manual will offer real numbers for your bang out of vehicle.
If you cant find the manual, look around online.
Youll probably find the actual recommendation for your car.
Check your oil and get it changed regularly.
the oil looks terrible but you just had it changed).
Check your battery and clean the contacts (if necessary).
If there is, clean it off witha battery cleaning brush.
It will set you back a couple of bucks at any auto parts or department store.
Buy one and keep it in the trunk.
While youre at it,consider buying a cheap battery testerorjump starter.
Replace your windshield wipers when the view gets streaky.
Wipers are cheap and easy to replace yourself.
Dont wait until it’s possible for you to barely see through your windshield.
Replace your cabin air filter.
Replacing acabin air filteris probably one of the easiest things you could do to keep your car comfortable.
Most vehicles make the cabin air filter easily accessible, andreplacing it is as easy as opening a box.
it’s possible for you to get a fitting filter at any auto parts store.
Replace your engine air filter.
If its dirty, replace it.
Get your tires rotated and balanced and your alignment checked.
Your alignment is just as important.
If youre fighting your car to keep it straight, thats a bad situation thats easily corrected.
Change your spark plugs.
If your spark plugs are worn out or covered in buildup, your engine isnt working efficiently.
That can cost you money in fuel for one, but it can also lead to a breakdown.
It may sound daunting, but in some caseschecking and replacing them isnt that difficult.
These are just a few things thateveryvehicle needs, and almost all of themare things you might do yourself.
If you dont have your manual, you’ve got the option to find it pretty easily online.
Check with your manufacturer firstthey may even have a PDF copy on their website.
If not,Edmunds has a list of online manuals hereorganized by manufacturer (US only).
Our friends at Jalopnikturned us on toJust Give Me The Damn Manual, which is a real windfall.
Remember,preventive maintenance can save you a ton.
Its not just something mechanics and car people tell you to do to spend money.
Tracking fill-ups and mileage is super-fast, as is adding maintenance history, expenses and reminders for future work.
it’s possible for you to track as many vehicles as you like, too.
Plus, it supports multiple vehicles.
Itll set you back $4 for iOS users and $2 for Android users.
The app will cost you $3.
Jalopnikcites this list of repairs better left to the experts.
This story was originally published on 9/26/13 and was updated on 7/18/19 to provide more thorough and current information.
