10 Essential Car Checks

It's far nicer to repair your car in your garage or at a shop than on the side of the highway, in the rain or the freezing cold. Of course, anything can happen and breakdowns are unavoidable, but some of them can be anticipated and fixed before they happen (that is, repairing a part not after it has failed, but when it's clearly about to fail). Regular checks like the ones below will help you do that.

Every car has a recommended tire pressure that you should maintain and check regularly. If the pressure doesn't match the spec, the tires and wheels will wear out or get damaged prematurely. If you constantly have to top up one of the tires, it probably has a small puncture or leak that can get worse after a hard impact or overheating. In that case, you'll need to repair or replace the tire.

Every driver should carry tools for repairs and routine maintenance. We won't go into which tools are essential and which are a luxury. What matters more is carrying them with you even when you think you won't need them, and knowing how to use them. Check your tools every six to twelve months and replace any that are worn or missing.

Check it every two weeks and before every long trip. In reality, it takes no more than 10 seconds, plus a few seconds to open and close the hood, so you could even check it every day. Don't forget that oil-related problems are exactly what can lead to an expensive engine repair.

Typically, a 1:1 mix of water and antifreeze is poured into the radiator (when cold). In winter, you add somewhat more antifreeze, or use it undiluted. Check the coolant level regularly, and while driving, keep an eye on the temperature gauge so you don't end up paying for another costly engine repair.

They should clear dirt off the glass, not smear it around, so check regularly that your wipers work properly. Even if everything seems fine, you can replace the blades every year for peace of mind.

It deserves its own item, because people often check it on the assumption that if the wipers work, the washers must work too. The washers shouldn't just spray fluid at random. They should cover the whole area the wipers sweep, so you can clean the windshield without getting out of the car. Also remember that plain water won't remove oil or grease from the glass, and in winter it can freeze.

Keep it clean and check it regularly for chips, cracks or scratches. A driver looks through the windshield more than anything else, and even a small spot can distract from the road.

Inspect them at least once a week, preferably with a helper, since they need to work properly. They aren't just for you, but for other road users too. Don't forget that.

Many cars have hydraulic power steering, which needs regular maintenance. Unfortunately, many owners forget that "hydraulic" means the system needs fluid to work properly, and its level should be checked at least once a month. Also, only fill it with the fluid specified for your car, not whatever happens to be at hand.

How often you check the body is up to you, but you should definitely inspect it before winter and before summer. Many cars on the road today are well past the age for which manufacturers guarantee the body's condition. Don't forget to treat it with protective coatings made for this purpose, which extend its service life.