DIY Car Care: 12 Easy Maintenance Checks You Can Do at Home

You don’t need to be a mechanic to keep your vehicle in good shape. A few quick DIY checks can prevent breakdowns, improve safety, and help you catch small problems before they turn into expensive repairs.

Here’s a simple DIY car care checklist you can do at home in under 15 minutes.

1) Check Engine Oil Level

Why: Low oil can cause serious engine damage.
How: Park on level ground, engine off, wait a few minutes, check the dipstick.
Watch for: very low level, burnt smell, thick/sludgy oil.

2) Check Tire Pressure (Monthly)

Why: Pressure affects braking, traction, tire wear, and fuel economy.
How: Check when tires are cold. Use the door sticker spec (not the tire sidewall).
Tip: Cold weather drops PSI—check more often in winter.

3) Check Tire Tread Depth

Why: Low tread reduces traction in rain and snow.
How: Use wear bars or a simple tread gauge. Check inner/middle/outer tread.
Watch for: uneven wear (alignment/suspension clue).

4) Look for Uneven Tire Wear Patterns

What it can mean:

inside-edge wear = alignment or worn suspension
cupping/scalloping = balance or shocks/struts
center wear = overinflation
edge wear = underinflation

5) Check Coolant Level (Only When Cool)

Why: Low coolant can lead to overheating.
How: Check reservoir level when engine is cool.
Watch for: sweet smell, visible leaks, low level repeatedly.

6) Check Windshield Washer Fluid + Wipers

Why: Clear visibility is safety.
How: Top up washer fluid; replace streaky wipers.
Winter tip: use winter-rated washer fluid.

7) Check Brake Fluid Level

Why: Low fluid can indicate pad wear or a leak.
How: Look at the brake fluid reservoir level (do not open hot).
Watch for: low level, very dark fluid, warning light.

8) Walk Around: Check All Lights

Why: Headlights, brake lights, and signals keep you visible.
How: Turn lights on, use hazards, press brake pedal (or back up to a wall).
Watch for: dim bulbs, flickering, moisture in housings.

9) Listen for New Noises

Why: Many issues announce themselves early.
Pay attention to:

squealing/grinding (brakes)
humming/roaring (wheel bearing/tires)
clunks over bumps (suspension)
clicking while turning (CV axle)

10) Check for Leaks Under the Vehicle

Why: Small leaks become big leaks.
Look for:

brown/black = oil
red/pink = transmission fluid (sometimes)
green/orange/pink = coolant
If you see spots regularly, it’s worth inspecting.

11) Battery Terminal Check (Quick Visual)

Why: Corrosion causes starting/charging issues.
Look for: white/blue crust, loose terminals, swollen battery case.
If you notice slow cranking: battery test time (especially before winter).

12) Keep a Simple Maintenance Log

Why: Helps you remember what was done and when, and improves resale value.
Write down: oil changes, tire rotations, filters, brake service, and any repairs.

DIY Car Care Schedule (Easy Routine)

Monthly

tire pressure + quick leak check
oil level
washer fluid

Every season (or before long trips)

tread depth check
coolant level check (cool engine)
lights + wipers check

Once a year (great before winter)

battery test
brake inspection
alignment check if wear/pulling

When DIY Ends and a Shop Check Makes Sense

Book an inspection if you notice:

overheating or coolant loss
check engine light (especially flashing)
strong brake shake/pulling/grinding
repeated tire pressure loss
major vibration at speed
clunks/clicks that are getting worse

Want Us to Double-Check It?

If you’d like a professional inspection after your DIY check, we’re happy to help.

Call 403-258-3030 to book an appointment.
Location: 8304 Fairmount Dr SE, Calgary, AB T2H 0Y8

12 Easy Maintenance Checks You Can Do at Home (No Tools Needed)