Maintenance of your vehicle is crucial to keep it running for long and in good shape. Renault vehicles are known for their high quality and long life. However, like any other vehicle, it also requires regular upkeep.
Irrespective of the vehicle you own or its make and model, a vehicle owner must conduct regular servicing, repairs, and maintenance to ensure its optimal state. Following a vehicle maintenance schedule and service intervals helps optimise your vehicle’s performance in the long run.
Regular car maintenance services ensure your car stays in optimal condition, prolong its lifespan and increase its resale value when you decide to upgrade.
During this process, specific parts of the vehicle must be checked according to the manufacturer’s warranty and the season. Some parts require periodic attention, while others need regular check-ups. For example, Renault mechanics near you should ensure they use only genuine Renault parts in your vehicle during repair.
General car safety checklist
This general car maintenance checklist is essential whether you are a new car owner or maintaining an older model. It’s not necessary for you to take your vehicle to the make-specific workshop; any advanced workshop near you capable of handling your vehicle can help you with your car maintenance requirements. For example, if you own a Renault vehicle, you can take it to a workshop near you or a Renault service centre, depending on your preferences. However, going to a make-specific workshop will ensure the particular make-trained experts and the use of manufacturer-approved parts.
- Seatbelts: Check the tension of the seat belt and its buckle operation.
- External Lights: Replace the headlight and other sign bulbs if needed.
- Handbrake: Ensure your handbrake is capable of holding the vehicle on a slope. If you notice even slight drifting of the vehicle, get in inspected by car mechanics.
- Windscreens & Mirrors: Inspect for cracks.
- Windscreen Wipers: Check blade wear and, if required, replace it in time.
- Horn: Ensure it’s clear and loud enough to be heard by fellow drivers on the road. Note: it shouldn’t be too loud, either.
- Fluids: Check engine oil and coolant levels.
- Tyres: Verify correct pressures and check the treadwear of all 4 tyres of your car.
- Spare Tyre & Jack: Ensure spare tyres are in good condition and can be used in case of emergency. Also, check the toolkit.
Under the hood checklist
1. Fluids:
Regularly check the fluid levels in your vehicle, including:
- Radiator Coolant
- Brake fluid
- Transmission fluid
- Engine Oil
- Windscreen washer fluid
- Power steering fluid.
- Clutch fluid (manual cars)
- Gearbox oil
- Differential fluid
Each fluid plays an important role in your vehicle’s performance. Although many of these fluids need replacement only every one to two years, it is advisable to check their levels monthly.
The frequency of oil changes depends on driving habits and the oil used. Generally, oil should be changed every 10,000 to 20,000 kms., but refer to your vehicle’s manual for the best guidance.
2. Battery
The automotive battery supplies the power required to start the engine, but over time, it will gradually lose its ability to hold a charge. To avoid getting stranded with a dead battery, have your mechanic check it during each service visit.
Typically, batteries need replacement every 3 to 4 years.
3. Air Conditioning Unit
It’s really important to have your car’s air-con system in place, especially during the summer months. Air conditioning during these hot months becomes a necessity. It’s best to get your air-con system checked from time to time to avoid any inconvenience.
4. Engine/Cabin Air Filter
The engine air filter prevents harmful contaminants from entering the engine. In contrast, the cabin air filter cleans the air through the car’s heating and air conditioning system, blocking dust, pollen and smog.
For the best performance and air quality, it is recommended that both the engine and cabin air filters be replaced every 25,000 to 50,000 km. This regular replacement ensures the filters are always in top condition, effectively doing their job. As they get dirty and brittle over time, a clogged engine air filter can cause unusual engine sounds, exhaust smoke and engine misfires.
5. Hoses and Belts
Hoses and belts are essential for any vehicle; if they fail, the engine might stop working. Professionals advise regularly checking them for cracks, brittleness or any other signs of wear and tear. Ideally, it would help if you replaced hoses and belts every 3 to 5 years or every 80,000 km.
6. Spark Plugs
Spark plugs keep your car’s engine running smoothly. Keep an ear out for weird rattling sounds, trouble starting your vehicle or if you notice that your vehicle isn’t running as smoothly as it should, it may indicate that you need a new spark plug. It’s recommended to change your vehicle’s spark plugs about every 4 to 6 years.
Tyre Checklist
- Tyre Pressures: Ensure your vehicle’s tyres have the right amount of air in them.
- Treadwear and Tread Depth: Check if the tyre treads are worn out and, if they are, how deeply they are damaged.
- Spare Tyre: Ensure you have a spare tyre if needed.
- Car Jack and Tools: Ensure you have the tools you need, like a car jack, to change a tyre if necessary.
Lights Checklist
- Check the headlights and ensure all the bulbs are working fine.
- Ensure your turn signals and hazard lights are working.
- Check if your brake lights come on when you press the brake pedal.
- See if your reverse lights turn on when you put your car in reverse.
- Check your parking and fog lights to ensure they’re working fine.
Why is it important to take preventive car maintenance measures?
Every vehicle needs to be serviced from time to time to maintain its overall condition and to avoid any issues with the vehicle in the long run. Preventive or basic car maintenance helps identify issues with the different parts of your vehicle, like brakes, lights, fluids, tyres and other parts. It helps ensure your vehicle runs smoothly without breaking down or causing major damage.
Get your vehicle regularly serviced at an advanced workshop
Your vehicle’s manufacturer’s manual provides all the details relating to when it’s time for scheduled services. These usually include a detailed check of your vehicle and fixing anything that needs replacement, like spark plugs or timing belts.
Getting scheduled servicing done at a workshop has two benefits:
- You’re sure to get genuine parts and expert service.
- Your car’s service history gets written down, which is important if you decide to sell your car later on.
Take Away
Taking the time for regular car maintenance goes a long way in ensuring your Renault, or any car for that matter, runs smoothly and safely for years to come. By following a maintenance schedule and checking key components like fluids, tyres and filters, you can avoid breakdowns, extend your car’s lifespan, and even boost its resale value.