by Tiger Okeley, an Executive Board Member for Indiana Finance Company and Oak Motors. Tiger has over 40 years of expertise in the Buy Here Pay Here industry. He is dedicated to providing innovative transportation solutions and empowering underserved customers through socially and financially responsible practices.
At Oak Motors, we know most drivers aren’t looking for complicated car advice. They just want a dependable vehicle that gets them where they need to go. The good news is that not every breakdown starts with a major failure.
Often, it’s the small things like low washer fluid, underinflated tires, or a minor leak that get overlooked until they turn into bigger problems.
Here are three common how-tos that can help you stay ahead of issues and keep your vehicle in better shape between service visits.
1. How do you check washer fluid and keep your windshield clear?
Washer fluid is easy to forget about until you suddenly need it. But keeping it filled can help you maintain visibility and ensure your wiper blades work as they should.
How to do it
First, make sure your vehicle is parked and turned off. Open the hood and locate the washer fluid reservoir cap. It’s usually marked with a windshield washer symbol. Open the cap and check the fluid level. If it’s low, add washer fluid until it reaches the proper level, then close the cap securely.
What to watch for
If you use the washer fluid and the windshield still looks streaky or hard to clear, your wiper blades may be worn out and need to be replaced.
Why it matters
Low washer fluid may not seem urgent until you hit rain, road spray, or a messy windshield at the worst time. Taking a minute to check it ahead of time can help you avoid visibility issues when you need a clear view most.
2. How do you check tire pressure and help your tires last longer?
Tire pressure affects safety, tire life, and even fuel economy. It’s one of the easiest things to check, and it can help you catch problems before they turn into a flat or uneven wear.
How to do it
Start by checking the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle. You can usually find it on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. Then use a tire pressure gauge to check each tire when the tires are cold. Compare the reading to the recommended PSI. If a tire is low, add air until it reaches the right level. If it’s overinflated, let some air out and check it again.
What to watch for
While you’re checking pressure, look at the tires for uneven wear, low tread, or anything that looks off. If one tire keeps losing air, that may point to a leak or another issue that should be inspected.
Why it matters
Underinflated tires can wear out faster, affect handling, and increase the risk of a flat. Staying on top of tire pressure can help you avoid bigger problems and help your tires last longer.
Extra tip
When you’re getting your oil changed, it’s smart to rotate your tires too. It may cost a little more up front, but it can help your tires wear more evenly and save money over the long run.
3. How to check for oil or coolant leaks before they become a bigger problem?
Leaks often start small, which is why it helps to know what to look for before they turn into a bigger repair.
How to do it
When your vehicle is parked, look at the ground underneath it for fresh spots or puddles. Then open the hood and take a quick look around for signs of wetness, buildup, or seepage near hoses and engine components. While you’re at it, check your oil and pay attention to whether fluid levels seem lower than usual.
What to watch for
Dark brown or black spots may be oil. Bright green, orange, or pink fluid may be coolant, depending on the vehicle. If you’re seeing new spots on the ground or noticing fluid levels dropping, it’s worth having the vehicle checked before the issue gets worse.
Why it matters
A leak that’s caught early is usually much easier to deal with than one that’s been ignored. Catching it sooner can help you avoid overheating, engine damage, or a breakdown that leaves you stranded.
What other basic car care habits can help between service visits?
A few other simple habits can help you stay ahead of issues between maintenance visits.
- Watch dashboard warning lights: Don’t ignore warning lights just because the vehicle still seems to be driving fine. Those alerts can be an early sign that something needs attention.
- Notice unusual sounds, smells, or changes: If your vehicle starts shaking, pulling, squealing, grinding, or struggling to start, it’s worth paying attention. Small changes can be early signs of bigger problems.
- Keep jumper cables or a portable jump box in your vehicle: If your vehicle won’t start, knowing how to safely test whether it needs a jump can help you better understand the issue before arranging a tow. A jump-start may get you going temporarily, but it shouldn’t be treated as a long-term fix for a battery or charging issue.
Final thoughts: What should drivers check between oil changes?
If you’re wondering what to check on your car between oil changes, start with the basics:
- Washer fluid and wiper performance
- Tire pressure and tire wear
- Oil levels and signs of leaks
At Oak Motors, we know dependable transportation matters. A few simple checks won’t prevent every problem, but they can help you catch small issues earlier and avoid bigger ones down the road.
Paying attention to the little things now can help protect your vehicle, your time, and your wallet later.
Categories: Vehicle Maintenance