9 Simple Car Maintenance Tasks That Most People Still Mess Up
Not everything you need done on your car requires a professional mechanic. As a former automotive technician, I can tell you that there are a number of simple car maintenance tasks that people frequently mess up. You might think, “Oh, it’s just an oil change” or “I’ll top those fluids off myself.” However, it’s not always that simple. Here are nine maintenance tasks that people mess up and how to perform them the right way.
1. Overfilling or Underfilling Motor Oil
It sounds easy: drain the old oil, pour in the new. But many people don’t check their owner’s manual for the exact oil quantity. Overfilling can cause foaming, pressure buildup, and even engine damage. Underfilling, on the other hand, leads to poor lubrication and overheating. Always measure carefully and double-check with the dipstick after running the engine briefly.
2. Not Tightening the Oil Drain Plug Properly
Whether you’re changing the oil yourself or inspecting after a shop visit, this small bolt can cause big problems. If the oil drain plug is too loose, you risk a leak that could starve the engine of lubrication. Too tight? You might strip the threads or crack the oil pan. Always use a torque wrench and follow your vehicle’s recommended specs. This tiny mistake has stranded many drivers.
3. Skipping the Air Filter Replacement
A dirty air filter chokes your engine and reduces fuel efficiency—yet many people ignore it. It’s out of sight, so it’s often out of mind. Some drivers wait until the check engine light comes on, but that’s way too late. Check your filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or sooner if you drive in dusty areas. It’s one of the easiest car maintenance tasks to overlook—and to fix.
4. Incorrect Tire Pressure
This mistake happens more often than you think and affects safety, fuel economy, and tire lifespan. Many people rely on the “max PSI” on the tire sidewall instead of checking the sticker inside the door or the owner’s manual. Overinflated tires wear unevenly and reduce grip; underinflated ones heat up and risk blowouts. Invest in a quality tire gauge and check pressure monthly, not just before road trips. Proper pressure makes a big difference in performance and safety.
5. Rotating Tires at the Wrong Time or Not at All
Tire rotation helps maintain even tread wear and prolongs tire life, but it’s often skipped or mistimed. Some people rotate too late or only when they notice uneven wear. Ideally, tires should be rotated every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Skipping this step can cause poor handling, reduced traction, and even tire failure. If your car maintenance plan doesn’t include this, you’re likely losing money on tires.
6. Improper Coolant Mixing
Coolant isn’t just water, and it isn’t a one-size-fits-all fluid. Some drivers top off with water, others mix incompatible coolants, leading to corrosion or clogs in the radiator. Always use the coolant recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer and mix it in the correct ratio (usually 50/50 with distilled water). Bad coolant choices can silently kill your engine over time. It’s a mistake that can cost you thousands later.
7. Forgetting to Replace Wiper Blades
Wiper blades degrade slowly, so it’s easy to forget about them until a storm hits. Many people wait until visibility is dangerously low before swapping them out. Cracked, streaky, or noisy blades are all signs it’s time for a change. Replacing them every six to twelve months ensures you’ll always see the road clearly. It’s a cheap fix, but one that too many overlook in their car maintenance routine.
8. Using the Wrong Type of Engine Oil
Grabbing the cheapest oil on the shelf might seem like a smart budget move, but it can backfire. Each car has specific oil viscosity and grade requirements. Using the wrong oil can cause poor engine performance, overheating, or even long-term damage. Always check the owner’s manual or oil cap before your next oil change. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.
9. Neglecting the Battery Terminals
A dead battery isn’t always caused by age—it’s often corrosion that creeps up unnoticed. Many people don’t think to inspect or clean their battery terminals until their car won’t start. Use a wire brush and a baking soda solution to keep terminals clean. This five-minute task can save you from waiting for a jump in the parking lot. It’s low effort and high reward—don’t ignore it.
Your Car Doesn’t Need a Mechanic—Just a Smarter Owner
There are plenty of car maintenance tasks that you can DIY. The key is to not be in a rush and ensure you’re doing everything right. These mistakes are unfortunately common, but they are also easy to avoid with the right knowledge and attention to detail. The most important thing is to stay on top of the basic car maintenance. Doing this will ensure that you keep your ride on the road.
Have you ever made one of these car maintenance mistakes? Share your story in the comments and help other drivers learn from your experience!
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