Everyone knows car repairs can be crazy expensive. Having a routine maintenance schedule for your vehicle can help you save hundreds, even thousands of dollars on future car repairs.

Here are 7 maintenance tips that can help you save money on car repairs.

1. Check Your Tires Regularly

Worn tires can cause your car to operate poorly. Visually check your tires once a month or before an extended road trip. To check your tires, place a penny inside the tread of your tires with the Lincoln head facing you. If the Lincoln head is partially or fully covered by the tire tread, your tires have enough tread to operate safely on the road. Use a tire gauge to check your tire pressure. If you’re driving your car without adequate pressure, a driver will experience poor mileage, alignment issues, or an unexpected blowout.

2. Check Engine/Transmission Oil Levels

Oil is essential to your vehicles engine. Your engine has several internal operating components that are dependent on oil. You can easily check your oil with the dipstick located in the engine bay of your car. It’s important to always have a well lubricated engine. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, you should check your oil every 3,000 miles or every six months. In fact, your transmission fluid should be checked regularly to ensure that it’s clear and clean. Check your transmission fluid levels with the dipstick. A burnt smell and major consumption issues are a reason to be concerned about your transmission fluid.

3. Check Your Coolant Levels

The radiator keeps your engine operating at a safe temperature. Engine coolant helps regulate the engine temperature. To avoid your engine overheating or freezing during the winter months, check your coolant levels regularly. You can visually check your engine coolant levels by reading the markings listed on the tank. Be sure to check your coolant twice a year.

4. Check Your Power Steering Fluid

Power steering fluid is responsible for keeping your valves, pistons, and power steering pump running properly. Getting a professional to check your power steering fluid is very inexpensive in comparison to the cost of replacing your power steering. A poorly operating power steering column can cause you to lose control of your ability to turn your steering wheel. Expert mechanics suggest checking your brake fluid every 30,000 miles.

5. Check Your Brake Fluid

Your brake fluid can present a safety issue for your vehicle. A car that is low on brake fluid will prevent you from properly using your brakes on the road and can be dangerous. You can visually check your brake fluid on some vehicles or use the integrated dipstick. Consumption of your brake fluid could indicate a problem with your brake system. You should check your brake fluid twice a year.

6. Check Your Lights

Always make sure your lights are functioning properly. In fact, check your brake lights, light covers, and signals lights. Use the reflection of a building at night to make sure all your lights are working.

7. Keep It Clean

Finally, give your vehicle a quick once over for dirt or debris and remove any excess leaves from the vents. It’s also a great time check your paint for dents, chips, or rust spots. Regularly clean the inside of your vehicle to avoid an odor or bacteria accumulating in your vehicle.

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