Simple Car Maintenance Tips for 2025
By Ridewise — September 2025
Regular car maintenance is not just about avoiding breakdowns — it’s about saving money, keeping your car safe, and making sure it lasts longer. Many drivers think maintenance requires expensive tools or professional mechanics, but a lot of important checks can be done at home with just a little time and attention.
In this guide, we’ll cover the basic car maintenance tips for 2025 that every driver should know. These tips are simple, practical, and work for most vehicles, whether you’re driving a compact car, SUV, or a hybrid. By sticking to these steps, you’ll keep your car running smoothly and reduce the chances of costly repairs down the road.
Image Credit: By Missvain, via Wikimedia Commons Licensed under ( CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication.)
1. Check Oil Levels
Engine oil is the lifeblood of your car. It lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, and helps prevent overheating. Driving with low or dirty oil can cause serious engine damage, sometimes costing thousands of dollars to repair.
To check oil:
- Park on level ground and let the engine cool.
- Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, then pull it out again to check the level.
- If low, add the correct grade of oil as recommended in your owner’s manual — don’t mix different types.
Most cars need an oil change roughly every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, though modern engines sometimes go longer. For simple, official guidance, see the NHTSA maintenance checklist.
2. Monitor Tire Pressure
Tires are often overlooked but they directly affect fuel efficiency, ride comfort, and safety. Underinflated tires lower fuel economy and wear faster; overinflated tires can reduce traction and make the ride harsh.
The recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) is usually printed on a sticker inside the driver’s door or listed in the owner’s manual. Check tire pressure at least once a month and whenever temperatures swing significantly — cold weather lowers PSI and hot weather raises it. Keeping correct pressure can reduce the risk of blowouts and improve fuel economy; see more on basic maintenance at Edmunds’ car maintenance guides.
3. Replace Air Filters
Air filters keep dust and dirt out of the engine. A clogged filter makes the engine work harder, reducing performance and fuel efficiency.
Most cars need a new air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, but if you drive in dusty conditions change it more often. Replacing an air filter is usually straightforward — open the air box, swap the old filter for a new one, and close it back up. This quick step improves engine breathing and saves a bit on fuel over time.
4. Battery Care
A weak or dead battery is one of the most common reasons a car won’t start. Regular battery care helps avoid that roadside surprise.
Battery tips:
- Check terminals for corrosion (white or green powder) and clean gently with a wire brush if needed.
- Ensure connections are tight and secure.
- Test the battery charge every few months, especially before winter — cold weather shortens battery life.
Car batteries typically last 3–5 years. If your car is slow to crank, lights are dim, or you hear clicking when you turn the key, it may be time for a replacement.
5. Brake Checks
Brakes are one of the most important safety systems. Listen for squeaks or grinding — those are common signs that pads are wearing. Vibrations through the brake pedal usually indicate warped rotors.
Also check brake fluid level; a low level can indicate a leak or worn pads. Because brakes are critical for safety, have a mechanic inspect them if you notice unusual noises, reduced stopping power, or warning lights. Staying on top of brake care prevents more expensive rotor and caliper damage later.
6. Wiper Blades and Lights
Visibility matters. Replace wiper blades once or twice a year or whenever they start streaking. Check headlights, brake lights, and turn signals regularly — a burned-out bulb is cheap to fix but essential for safety and avoiding tickets.
Video: Simple Car Maintenance Tips
Here’s a quick video that walks you through simple car maintenance steps like checking oil, tire pressure, and brakes. It’s a helpful visual guide to go along with the tips we’ve shared above.
7. Follow Your Service Schedule
These DIY steps are helpful, but every car has specific service needs listed in the owner’s manual. Follow the recommended schedule for oil changes, belt replacements, coolant flushes, and other services. Skipping maintenance may save money today but usually costs more later — prevention is cheaper than repair.
Final Note
Car maintenance doesn’t have to be complicated. By checking oil, monitoring tire pressure, replacing filters, caring for the battery, checking brakes, and following the service schedule, you’ll keep your car in top shape and avoid expensive surprises. Small steps save big money — always double-check your owner’s manual for exact instructions because every model is a little different.
For further reading, check Edmunds’ maintenance guides, the NHTSA maintenance checklist, and beginner tips from Car and Driver.
See more car-buying and maintenance tips on our site — Car buying tips.
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