7 DIY Car Maintenance Tips to Avoid Breakdowns

1. Check Your Tire Pressure Regularly

Improper tire pressure is one of the most common causes of roadside breakdowns. Overinflated tires can burst under heat, while underinflated tires reduce fuel efficiency and control.

How to do it:

• Use a digital tire gauge at least once a month.
• Inflate your tires according to the PSI listed on your driver’s door or manual.
• Don’t forget the spare tire, it should always be ready for emergencies.

2. Keep an Eye on Fluid Levels

Your car depends on a few critical fluids: engine oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, coolant, and windshield washer fluid. Low or dirty fluids can cause overheating, stalling, or brake failure.

DIY tip:

• Check engine oil monthly using the dipstick.
• Refill or replace fluids that look dark or sludgy.
• Top off coolant before long trips to avoid overheating.

Ignoring this can lead to serious damage that might require you to search “tow truck near me” sooner than you’d like.

3. Replace Worn-Out Belts and Hoses

Belts and hoses may look minor but play a huge role in keeping your car running. A broken serpentine belt can instantly disable your vehicle, requiring towing.

How to spot problems:

• Look for cracks, fraying, or soft spots.
• Replace belts every 60,000–100,000 km or as recommended.

4. Test Your Battery

A dead battery is one of the most common reasons people need tow trucks in Kitchener.

DIY tip:

• Check battery terminals for corrosion.
• Use a multimeter to test voltage (it should read 12.6 volts or higher).
• Replace the battery every 3-5 years or when you notice slow engine starts.

For quick roadside help, WR Towing offers jumpstart assistance 24/7 across Kitchener, Cambridge, and Waterloo.

5. Maintain Your Brakes

Neglecting your brakes doesn’t just lead to towing, it’s a major safety hazard. Squealing, grinding, or vibration when braking are warning signs.

DIY tip:

• Check brake pads for thickness (they should be more than 3mm).
• Use brake cleaner to remove dust buildup.
• Have your brake fluid flushed regularly.

6. Watch for Dashboard Warning Lights

Your dashboard is your first line of defense against breakdowns. Never ignore a check engine, oil pressure, or temperature warning light.

If you’re unsure what a light means, refer to your car’s manual—or use free resources like OBD-Codes.com to decode it.

7. Wash and Wax Regularly

While this might sound purely aesthetic, keeping your car clean actually prevents rust, which can affect performance parts like brake lines and the undercarriage, especially during winter salt exposure.