Keeping your car in tip-top shape doesn’t have to be a chore. With a little know-how and some clever tricks, you can keep your ride running like a dream and avoid those dreaded roadside breakdowns. Proper maintenance also saves you money in the long run by preventing costly repairs.

1. Check Your Tires, Not Just Your Instagram

Your tires are literally where the rubber meets the road. Check the air pressure monthly and look for signs of wear and tear. Uneven treads? It’s not a new fashion trend—get them rotated every 5,000 miles. Bonus: properly inflated tires improve fuel efficiency, which means more road trips and fewer gas station stops.

2. Oil: The Lifeblood of Your Engine

Ignoring oil changes is like skipping doctor appointments. Stick to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals, and use the right oil for your car. Clean oil keeps your engine happy and humming, not coughing and sputtering like it’s caught the flu.

3. Keep Your Cool (Literally)

Your cooling system prevents your engine from turning into a molten heap. Check the coolant levels regularly and inspect hoses for cracks or leaks. If you’ve never flushed your coolant system, add it to your to-do list—your engine will thank you with fewer temper tantrums.

4. Lights, Wipers, Action!

Dim or dead headlights? Replace them before you feel like you’re starring in a horror movie. And don’t forget your windshield wipers—they’re your first line of defense against surprise rainstorms and suicidal bugs.

5. Battery: Power Up

Pop the hood and check your battery’s terminals for corrosion. If it’s covered in white crust, clean it up (carefully). Most batteries last 3-5 years, so keep an eye on its age. Pro tip: carrying jumper cables is always a smart move, because nobody likes being stranded in a parking lot.

6. Listen to Your Car’s Complaints

Strange noises? Don’t turn up the radio and hope for the best. Whether it’s a squeal, rattle, or groan, your car’s trying to tell you something. Get it checked out before a minor issue morphs into a major (and expensive) headache.