Car Maintenance Tips Every Dad Should Know
As a dad, you’ve probably been the go-to person for all things mechanical, whether it’s fixing a squeaky toy or assembling the latest flat-pack furniture. But when it comes to car maintenance, it’s not just about convenience—it’s essential for safety, saving money, and avoiding those dreaded breakdowns, especially when you’ve got a car full of kids. In Australia, regular car maintenance is more important than ever, with over 19 million registered motor vehicles across the country, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. With our vast landscapes and long drives often being part of family life, keeping your car in good shape is a must. So, let’s dive into some car maintenance tips every Aussie dad should know to keep your family on the road safely and smoothly.
The Importance of Car Maintenance for Aussie Dads
Australia’s wide-open roads can take a toll on your vehicle, especially if you’re juggling school runs, weekend sports, and the occasional road trip. A 2019 survey by Canstar revealed that more than half of Australian drivers admit to skipping routine car maintenance, often leading to costly repairs down the track. For dads, the stakes are even higher, as a poorly maintained car can leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere—imagine that with kids in the back! Regular car maintenance not only keeps you safe but also helps extend the life of your vehicle, save money, and give you peace of mind knowing your family is riding in a reliable car.
1. Check Your Oil Regularly
Oil is the lifeblood of your engine. Without enough clean oil, your engine’s moving parts can’t stay lubricated, leading to wear and tear that could result in a breakdown or costly repairs. Checking your oil regularly is one of the simplest yet most important things you can do for your car.
How to check your oil:
- Park on a flat surface: Make sure your car is on level ground and the engine is cool.
- Locate the dipstick: Pull it out, wipe it clean with a cloth, then reinsert it fully.
- Check the level: Pull it out again and check where the oil sits in relation to the “low” and “full” marks. If it’s below the “low” mark, top it up with the correct oil for your car.
Light-Hearted Tip:
If your kids ask what you’re doing while checking the oil, you can tell them you’re giving the car a health check. “Just like a doctor, but for engines!”
2. Keep Your Tyres in Check
Your tyres are your car’s connection to the road, so keeping them in good condition is crucial. Proper tyre maintenance not only improves safety but also helps your car run more efficiently, saving you money on fuel.
How to maintain your tyres:
- Check the pressure: Under-inflated tyres wear out faster and increase fuel consumption. Check your tyre pressure once a month using a gauge, and inflate them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations (usually found in your car’s manual or on the door jamb).
- Look for wear and tear: Inspect your tyres for signs of damage or uneven wear, which could indicate alignment issues. If the tread is worn down, it’s time to replace them—bald tyres won’t give you the grip you need, especially in wet weather.
- Rotate your tyres: To ensure even wear, rotate your tyres every 10,000 kilometres. This helps them last longer and keeps your ride smoother.
Light-Hearted Tip:
Next time you’re at the petrol station, make a game of tyre checks with the kids. Let them “supervise” while you pump up the tyres, and maybe even give them a try at using the tyre gauge—under close watch, of course!
3. Brakes: Don’t Ignore the Signs
Your brakes are arguably the most important safety feature on your car, so keeping them in good condition is essential. Don’t wait until you hear that awful squealing noise to check them—by then, it could be too late.
How to check your brakes:
- Listen for unusual sounds: If you hear squealing, grinding, or clicking noises when you brake, it could mean your brake pads are worn down and need replacing.
- Feel for changes: If your brake pedal feels spongy or if you notice your car pulling to one side when you brake, it’s time to get them checked by a professional.
- Regular inspections: Have your brakes inspected at least once a year or during routine services.
Light-Hearted Tip:
If you hear squealing brakes while doing the school drop-off, don’t panic—it’s not your kids making the noise for once! Get them checked ASAP.
4. Battery Basics: Keep It Charged
There’s nothing worse than a flat battery when you’re about to head off on the weekend family adventure. Car batteries typically last 3-5 years, but extreme weather and regular short trips can reduce their lifespan. To avoid the inconvenience of a dead battery, it’s important to keep an eye on its condition.
How to maintain your battery:
- Look for signs of corrosion: Check the battery terminals for any buildup of white, powdery corrosion. If you spot it, you can clean it off with a mixture of baking soda and water, but be sure to wear gloves.
- Test the charge: Many auto shops will test your battery for free, so if you notice your car struggling to start or dim headlights, it might be worth checking.
- Drive regularly: If you’re only taking short trips, the alternator might not have enough time to fully recharge the battery. Consider taking your car for a longer drive every now and then to keep the battery healthy.
Light-Hearted Tip:
Explaining to your kids why the car won’t start? “The car’s battery is just like your tablet—it needs charging too!”
5. Keep an Eye on Coolant and Fluids
Your car relies on more than just oil to run smoothly. Coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid all play vital roles in keeping your engine running and your car safe.
How to maintain your car’s fluids:
- Coolant: Check your coolant level regularly, especially before long trips. It helps prevent the engine from overheating, which can be disastrous if ignored.
- Brake fluid: Low brake fluid can affect your braking power, so it’s essential to top it up when needed. If you’re unsure, most service stations can help check your fluid levels.
- Transmission fluid: This helps keep your car shifting smoothly. If it’s low or dirty, you might notice issues with gear changes. Have it checked during your car’s service.
Light-Hearted Tip:
Tell your kids that keeping the car’s fluids topped up is like making sure they’re hydrated—no one likes being thirsty!
6. Wipers and Lights: See and Be Seen
Clear vision is critical, especially during those rainy Aussie afternoons. Make sure your wiper blades are in good condition and that all your lights—headlights, brake lights, and indicators—are working properly.
How to check wipers and lights:
- Wiper blades: If your wipers leave streaks or make squeaky noises, it’s time for new ones. Changing them is quick and easy, and you can usually find replacement blades at your local auto shop.
- Lights: Regularly check that all your lights are working by doing a quick walk-around. If you notice any bulbs out, replace them promptly to avoid getting pulled over or driving unsafely.
Light-Hearted Tip:
Let the kids play “cop” and check that your car’s lights are all working. It’s a fun way to get them involved and teach them about safety!
