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People say “prevention is better than cure.” Do you know that if you don’t service your car regularly, it has a high potential of getting damaged? Before you go to the workshop to service your car, let’s read this article for a moment. Qoala will explain 12 checklists that you need to know so that you won’t be surprised when dealing with the workshop later.
12 Car Service Checklist
Now, let’s take a look at the 12 car service checklists that you must know.
1. Engine Oil and Oil Filter
Do you know the actual function of engine oil? You often hear about it, right?
The function of engine oil is to clean, cool, lubricate the engine’s movement, and prevent damage to engine components. For your information, it is recommended to change the engine oil and oil filter every three months or 3,000 miles.
This depends on the car model, type of oil, and car usage. Engine oil is crucial for engine performance and durability. Therefore, you need to pay extra attention to this. Here are signs that you need to change the engine oil before it’s too late:
- Dark and dirty oil;
- Engine performance issues;
- Warning symbols illuminated;
- Burning smell;
- Increased fuel consumption.
2. Oil Level and Coolant
Next, you need to check the oil level and coolant level of your car and make sure they are not low. Low levels can cause major engine damage and other issues.
Where to check? Firstly, make sure you turn off the car engine. After that, you need to open the engine hood, and you will find them. Ideally, if you are unsure of the recommended levels, you can refer to an expert or the car’s manual.
3. Gearbox Oil
You are advised to change the gearbox oil every 20,000 kilometers. However, the lifespan of the gearbox oil depends on the car’s type and specifications.
Whether your car is manual or automatic, checking and replacing the gearbox oil is crucial. If it is not replaced and left as is, your car may experience damage and may require component replacement.
Here are signs that your car’s gearbox is starting to fail:
- Difficulty shifting gears
- Strong jerking for automatic transmission
- Inability to move the car
4. Spark Plugs
The fourth car service checklist you need to check is the spark plugs. So, what are spark plugs?
Spark plugs are responsible for generating electrical energy that ignites the air-fuel mixture in the combustion engine, which powers your car.
If the spark plugs are damaged or not functioning properly, you will notice a loss of engine power, which means it cannot operate at its maximum capacity.
If you notice such issues with your car, Qoala recommends getting a professional inspection immediately.
Here are 5 signs that your spark plugs are starting to fail and need to be replaced:
- Weak acceleration
- Fast oil consumption
- Rough engine idle
- Loud engine noise
- Car can start but won’t stay running
5. Car Tyres
The inspection of car tyres is often overlooked by many, even though it is the most visible part. If you allow your tyres to remain in a poor or damaged condition, you are at a high risk of injury or accidents that could potentially take lives on the road.
Qoala recommends checking your tyres at least once every 1-2 weeks. You should also check them before embarking on long journeys. What should you check? There are two things you need to pay attention to.
First, check the tread wear of the tyres. Look at the tyre grooves to see if they are worn out. The rate of tread wear may vary between the front and rear tyres.
If you find that your car tyres are bald or appear smooth, replace them quickly. It’s dangerous to drive with tyres in such condition. Secondly, it’s important to check the tyre pressure. Ensure that the tyre pressure is appropriate, neither too low nor too high.
Low tyre pressure can cause punctures, while high tyre pressure can lead to aquaplaning, especially during rain. How do you know the correct pressure? It depends on the type of car and the type of tyres you are using. You can check the recommended tyre pressure for your car on the front door panel next to the driver’s seat.
Tyre pressure depends on the type of car and type of tyres used, so check the recommended tyre pressure information on the front door panel next to the driver’s seat.
6. Car Lights
The next car service item you need to know is to ensure that your car lights are functioning properly and in good condition.
Here are the lights you should check at least once a month:
- Low beam headlights;
- High beam headlights;
- Fog lights;
- Front and rear lights;
- Brake lights;
- Turn signals.
7. Bateri Kereta
For your information, car batteries need to be replaced every two years. However, this depends on usage, battery type, and maintenance.
You may wonder, what is the actual function of a car battery? In your car’s electrical system, the battery is the most important component.
The car battery starts the car’s engine by supplying electrical current. It also stores electrical charge for use when the car’s engine is not running.
Have you encountered the following problems?
- Difficulty starting the car;
- Warning lights appearing;
- Foul smell;
- Random car alarm activation.
If you experience any of these, it’s a sign that your car battery is failing. So, replace it promptly.
8. Brake Pads
Brakes ensure your safety while driving on the road. They not only ensure your safety but also the safety of others around you. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that your brakes are functioning properly. So, what are brake pads?
Brake pads are the main component of your car’s braking system and play a crucial role in stopping the car when you press the brake pedal.
If you find that your car brakes are not responding well or are not effective, it’s time to visit a workshop.
9. Car Wipers
This is crucial when driving in rainy conditions. Car wipers or windshield wipers are important components that need proper care. All cars must have windshield wipers for the purpose of improving visibility during rainy driving and removing rainwater, dust, dirt, and other debris.
Make sure the wiper blades are in good condition. It is recommended to replace the wiper blades every 6-12 months, depending on their condition. Well-maintained wipers can effectively clear water from the windshield, improving visibility and potentially saving lives.
10. Air Filter
Ensure that the air filter is in good condition as it can help prolong the engine’s lifespan.
The function of the air filter is to control the airflow entering the engine and prevent debris or contaminants from entering and damaging engine components. You can inspect and clean the air filter yourself at home.
11. Shock Absorber
You can probably guess its function from its name. The shock absorber is an important component in the vehicle’s suspension system. Why is this part important? Let’s look at its functions:
- Control shock;
- Absorb impact;
- Control the movement of the spring and the overall suspension system when the vehicle passes over bumps, potholes, or uneven roads.
It is important to ensure that this component is in good condition as the car can lose control while driving.
12. Serpentine Belt
The last car service item on this list is the serpentine belt. It is a multi-grooved belt placed on multiple pulleys to drive the alternator, power steering, and air conditioning compressor.
What happens if the serpentine belt is damaged? The car will vibrate or produce a shaking sound, especially when turning on the car’s air conditioning. A worn serpentine belt can cause noisy operation, especially when the car’s air conditioning is turned on.
Importance of Car Servicing: What Happens If You Don’t Do It?
Having a car is great. With a car, we can move from point A to point B, then to point C, and so on. In other words, a car makes it convenient for us to go anywhere at any time.
Unfortunately, not everyone knows how to properly take care of a car, especially when it comes to car servicing. Whether you’re a man or a woman, if you don’t know the basics of car maintenance, there will be consequences in the future, and it will likely result in higher costs!
Here, Qoala wants to give you an early WARNING of what might happen to your beloved car if you continue to neglect its maintenance. The main purpose of servicing is to maintain the car’s condition so that it can continue to function properly. Regular car maintenance can prevent unexpected damages and accidents.
However, if you don’t service your car regularly, the potential cost of damages due to lack of servicing will be higher. Every car has a specific time interval for servicing. Here are some problems you may encounter if you don’t service your car:
Endangering Yourself (and Your Passengers!)
Have you ever seen a car stranded on the side of a highway? It’s dangerous, right? Especially when cars are speeding on the highway. You can avoid this situation if you regularly service your car. The potential for damage is high if you’re not attentive to the car’s condition.
This not only endangers yourself but also puts your passengers, who may include family members or friends, at risk. When you consistently service your car, you can drive calmly without worrying. You know that the car is in its best condition.
Damage Will Worsen
Regular car servicing helps maintain your car’s performance at its optimum level. It can also prevent further damage from occurring. From a financial perspective, regular servicing is much better than having to repair damages.
Significant Reduction in Resale Value
Who wants to buy a car with poor performance? You probably don’t want that, right? Let’s say one day you plan to sell your car, you may face problems such as receiving offers that are much lower than your expectations.
Remember, your car resale value decreases if it’s not in good condition. Therefore, consistent servicing is necessary.
Shortened Lifespan
Your car, which could have lasted for many years, may only last for a few years if you don’t service it regularly.
That’s the reality if you don’t service your car, your car will face many problems and won’t last long.
Hopefully, the 12 checklists that Qoala shared in this article are beneficial to you. Remember, it’s better to spend money on car servicing because it’s more cost-effective than spending money on repairs!
Additionally, if you’re looking for the best and comprehensive car insurance or motorcycle insurance, visit Qoala’s website for more information. Qoala is an insurance platform in Malaysia that guarantees a safe, affordable, and easy insurance purchasing process.
