10 Car Maintenance Tips for a Long Life

Do you want your car to last longer and remain reliable? Regular maintenance is key. In this article, we share 10 essential tips to extend the life of your car and prevent costly repairs.

Why Is Regular Car Maintenance Important?

A well-maintained car:

• 🚗 Lasts an average of 50% longer
• 💰 Saves you thousands of euros on repairs
• ⛽ Consumes less fuel
• 🛡️ Is safer on the road
• 📈 Retains better resale value

The 10 Best Car Maintenance Tips

1. Follow the Maintenance Schedule

Your car manufacturer has established a maintenance schedule for a reason. Follow this schedule carefully:

• Minor service: Every 15,000 km or annually
• Major service: Every 30,000 km or 2 years
• APK inspection: Annual (mandatory)

Bee Faay Auto Group We help you follow the schedule for your specific car brand.

2. Check the oil regularly

Motor oil is the lifeblood of your engine. Check it at least monthly:

• Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean
• Insert back and pull again
• Oil level should be between MIN and MAX
• Top up if necessary with the correct oil type

3. Replace Oil and Filters on Time

Old oil loses its protective properties:

• Motor oil: Every 10,000-15,000 km
• Oil filter: At every oil change
• Air filter: Every 20,000-30,000 km
• Cabin filter: Annually (prevents bad odors)

4. Check the coolant

Coolant prevents overheating and freezing:

• Check level in expansion tank (engine cold!)
• Color must be bright (red, green, or blue)
• Flush and replace contaminated fluid
• Check for leaks under the car

5. Maintain the Brakes

Brakes are crucial for your safety:

• Have brake discs and pads checked annually
• Change brake fluid every 2-3 years
• Listen for squeaking noises (wear indicators)
• Vibration when braking? Have it checked immediately.

6. Check Tire Pressure & Tread

Good tires are essential:

• Voltage: Check monthly (see sticker in door)
• Profile: Minimum 1.6 mm (legal minimum)
• Exchange: Front/rear every 10,000 km for even wear
• Balance: With new tires or vibrations

7. Check All Fluids

In addition to oil and coolant:

• Windshield washer fluid: Top up regularly
• Brake fluid: Must not be below the MIN line
• Power steering fluid: If not electric
• Transmission oil: According to maintenance schedule

8. Replace Timing Belt in Time

A broken timing belt is disastrous for your engine:

• Replace according to manufacturer's recommendations (often 60,000-120,000 km)
• Also replace the water pump during this job
• Check your maintenance booklet for intervals
• Cost: €350-€800 (much cheaper than engine damage!)

Bee Faay Auto Group We replace the timing belt professionally.

9. Maintain the Battery

Prevent starting problems:

• Check battery terminals for corrosion (white powder)
• Test voltage annually (especially before winter)
• Battery lasts 4-6 years
• Drive longer distances regularly to charge the battery

10. Wash and Protect the Paint

Protect the bodywork against rust:

• Wash your car regularly (especially in winter – salt damage!)
• Wash bottom annually
• Wash and polish twice a year for paint protection
• Treat small rust spots immediately
• Check rubbers and sealing seams

Save Maintenance Costs

Tips to save money:

• ✅ Choose an independent garage (cheaper than a dealer)
• ✅ Ask for combination deals (APK + minor service)
• ✅ Resolve minor problems immediately (prevents major damage)
• ✅ Use quality but not necessarily original parts
• ✅ Schedule maintenance for winter/summer (seasonal promotions)

Car Maintenance at Faay Auto Group

At Faay Auto Groep in Nieuwegein we provide complete maintenance for all car brands:

• 🔧 Minor and major services according to factory schedule
• 🔍 APK inspection by an RDW-approved station
• ⚙️ Timing belt and chain replacement
• 🛞 Tire service and seasonal changes
• ❄️ Air conditioning maintenance and refilling
• 🔋 Test and replace battery
• ⚡ Electrical systems

Call 030 601 99 15 for a maintenance appointment or book directly online.

Conclusion

Regular car maintenance is the best investment in your car's longevity. These 10 tips will keep your car in top condition and prevent costly repairs. Schedule your maintenance appointment with Faay Auto Groep today – your car deserves it!