Top 10 Basic Car Maintenance Tasks You Can Do at Home

Taking care of your car doesn’t always mean heading to a mechanic. With a little bit of time and a few simple tools, you can learn how to maintain your car yourself and keep it in great shape between services. Whether you’re a seasoned car lover or just starting out, these basic car maintenance at home tips are perfect for beginners.

At AME Automotive, we’ve been helping Perth drivers care for their vehicles for over 30 years. So we’ve put together a handy list of easy car maintenance tasks you can do yourself — no fancy workshop needed.

1. Check and Top Up Your Fluids

Your car runs on more than just petrol. Regularly checking your engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windscreen washer fluid is a must. If levels are low, top them up — just make sure you’re using the right fluid for each part of your car.

2. Do a DIY Oil Change

Changing your engine oil is one of the most important maintenance tasks you can do. Our DIY oil change guide:

– Make sure the engine is cool

– Place a drip pan under the sump

– Remove the drain plug and old oil filter

– Let it drain completely

– Replace the plug, fit a new filter, and pour in fresh oil

Check your owner’s manual for the right oil type and how often it should be changed.

3. Check Tyre Pressure and Condition

Healthy tyres = safer driving and better fuel economy. Use a tyre pressure gauge to check each tyre and inflate to the recommended PSI. Don’t forget to inspect for cuts, bulges, or worn tread. Tyres with uneven wear could mean your wheel alignment is off.

4. Replace Your Windscreen Wipers

If your wipers are leaving streaks or squeaking, it’s time for a replacement. This is a simple task — just check your manual for the correct size, unclip the old blades, and snap the new ones in.

5. Test Your Battery

Most auto stores offer free battery testing. If your car’s been slow to start or the battery is more than three years old, it’s worth checking. You can also clean any corrosion from the terminals using baking soda and water.

6. Change the Air Filter

A dirty air filter can affect your engine’s performance and fuel efficiency. It’s usually located in a plastic box under the bonnet and can be replaced in under five minutes with no tools needed.

7. Inspect Belts and Hoses

Have a look under the bonnet for any worn or cracked belts and bulging or leaking hoses. Catching these early can prevent breakdowns and costly repairs.

8. Replace Light Bulbs

Blown headlights, brake lights, or indicators? These are usually quick and easy fixes. Just be sure to buy the right replacement bulb for your vehicle make and model.

9. Keep a Car Maintenance Checklist

Staying organised helps prevent small issues from turning into big ones. Create a simple car maintenance checklist to track fluid checks, tyre rotations, filter changes, and other regular tasks.

10. Listen and Look for Changes

Strange noises, dashboard warning lights, odd smells, or changes in performance? They’re often early signs something needs attention. Trust your gut — and when in doubt, give us a call.

Know When to Call the Pros

DIY car maintenance tips are a great way to stay on top of basic car care and learn more about your vehicle. But if something seems off or you’re unsure about a task, it’s best to leave it to the experts.

At AME Automotive in Canning Vale, we’re always here to help with professional servicing and honest advice. Book in with our friendly team and drive away with peace of mind.

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