The Best Maintenance Tips For Busy Car Owners: A guide To Easy Car Care

Isn't it hassling when you have to spend hours in a garage for car maintenance between your hectic schedule? You would rather spend that time working, completing your errands, or shuttling your kids around. This is a much more common experience among busy car owners, and that just leads to a lack of care for your car. It is tempting to ignore the cryptic owner manual and remember service intervals, but this will only cause greater hassles in the long run. Plus, lack of maintenance could reduce your car’s roadworthiness. 

In such cases, most car owners complain of failing their MOT test too. So, how do you maintain your car despite your busy schedule? This guide helps you with some top maintenance tips if you are a busy car owner. These are simple to follow, do not take up much of your time, and even increase your chances of achieving the MOT Reading.  

Why Is Car Maintenance Significant? 

First, let's understand why car servicing is so important. Your car will likely be your lifelong companion. Hence, servicing it in time will improve its safety, reliability, and durability. The following is a list of benefits from regular car maintenance: 

• Breakdown prevention: A breakdown on a stranded highway is one of the most common fears among drivers. Prevent such sudden breakdowns with regular servicing. This helps in addressing minor issues early on, so your car runs smoothly without the risk of a breakdown.
  
  

• Safer rides: A well-maintained car will always offer you safer rides. Faulty lights, worn-out brakes, and neglected tyres are common safety hazards. With regular servicing, you can prevent such issues from turning into potential safety hazards. So, not only are you staying safe on the road, but it is also keeping other passengers safe.
  
  

• Cost-effective: Regular maintenance will help you save money. First, it prevents costly repairs in the long run. Second, it reduces your vehicle’s fuel consumption, so you enjoy overall cost efficiency. Finally, it maintains your car’s resale value, so if you decide to sell your car, you get a fair deal.
  
  

• Maintain longevity: Every machine needs regular maintenance to keep running smoothly for a long time. Similarly, with regular car maintenance, you are ensuring longevity and performance.
  
  

• Smoother journey: With timely maintenance, you enjoy a smoother performance from your car. So, you can expect fewer rattles, bumps, or any unexpected breakdowns. 
  
  

What Should You Include In Your Maintenance Checklist?  

If you want to maintain your car, follow this checklist of simple and convenient servicing tips: 

1. Oil change: A major factor that contributes to a healthy engine is oil. Changing oil regularly is important for the overall smooth functioning of your car. Follow your manufacturer’s guidelines to learn the correct time for an oil change. It is usually advised after every 3000 to 5000 miles.
   
   

2. Fluid checks: Besides engine oil, other fluids such as brake fluid, engine coolant, and windshield washer fluid require regular checks too. You need to maintain their levels and top them at regular intervals.
   
   

3. Tyre maintenance: Tyre checks are one of the easiest inspections. All you need to do is maintain correct air pressure with monthly checks. You can look for uneven damage on the tyre surface and maintain appropriate tread depth. Make sure the tread depth does not reach the minimum legal limit, and remember to check the spare tyre too.
   
   

4. Lights check: Lights are a crucial part of safe driving, especially at night or in fog. Ensure proper functioning of all lights, including the headlights, turn signals, brake lights, and tail lights. Dim or faulty lights are safety hazards and should be repaired quickly.
   
   

5. Wipers inspection: Check for any squeaking or streaking from your wiper blades. Replace them at least once a year, or in case faults occur. Safe driving needs good visibility, and wipers are a part of it. 
   
   

How To Ensure Proper Maintenance During Busy Times? 

The above-mentioned checklist is one of the simplest maintenance guides, but it might still require some attention and time from your busy schedule. Here are some bonus tips for busy car owners to maintain their vehicle’s roadworthiness: 

• Book maintenance appointments in advance: Waiting until the last minute will only increase your hassles. Many service providers offer online booking services, so you can easily book your maintenance appointment early on. Schedule the appointment according to the service intervals to avoid repeated visits to the garage.
  
  

• Record all services and repairs: Keeping a record of all maintenance services and repairs to your vehicle can come in handy in the future. Include even the receipts and mileage logs to schedule your next services timely. Plus, such records also become valuable while deciding your car’s resale value.
  
  

• Make use of technology: The automobile industry has evolved and there are even apps available for your car’s maintenance. These can help you keep track of your services, remind you of any upcoming services, and even locate the nearest auto centres.
  
  

• Partner with a reliable professional: Partnering with a trustworthy mechanic will ensure you get honest advice and quality services. They can be your go-to person for all your car needs. 
  
  

Neglecting car services and maintenance can cost you in the long run. Some common reasons for failure in the MOT include messy cabins and low levels of windscreen washers. These could be easily prevented with timely services, even if you do it yourself. Follow this guide to maintain your car easily during busy times and enjoy comfortable journeys.