FIVE OVERLOOKED CAR MAINTENANCE ESSENTIALS EVERY DRIVER SHOULD KNOW
- Brian Westlake
- 22 hours ago
- 2 min read
Most drivers know the drill when it comes to oil changes and tyre pressure checks. But several lesser-known maintenance essentials are just as critical to safety and vehicle longevity.
With cost-of-living pressures pushing many Australians to hold onto their cars for longer, proactive maintenance has never mattered more.
Craig Daniel, Franchisee for JAX Tyres & Auto Fairy Meadow, says: “Car maintenance goes far beyond the basics many drivers are aware of. Key components like brake fluid, wheel alignment, and battery health often get overlooked, yet they have a significant impact on both safety and your vehicle’s lifespan.
"Staying on top of these less obvious areas means you can prevent unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.”
The warning comes as a recent iSelect survey revealed more than one in four vehicle owners, 27 per cent, have delayed or skipped servicing in the past year due to financial pressures.
It is a short-term saving that can lead to far more expensive problems later.
Here are five commonly overlooked maintenance areas Craig says every driver should prioritise.
Car brake fluid does not last forever
Brake fluid degrades over time, something many drivers are unaware of. Moisture contamination can reduce braking effectiveness and, in extreme cases, may even lead to brake failure if left untreated.
Craig recommends a brake fluid flush every two years, or in line with manufacturer advice, to maintain optimal braking safety.
Wheel alignments are not just for after a bump
Poor wheel alignment affects far more than steering feel. It can reduce fuel efficiency and cause tyres to wear out prematurely.
Because misalignments can develop gradually, they often go unnoticed for months or even years.
Regular checks help maintain smooth handling, extend tyre life and improve overall performance.
Cabin air filters affect more than airflow.
A dirty cabin air filter does not just limit airflow inside the car. It can also impact respiratory health, particularly for allergy sufferers or those sensitive to dust and pollen.
Filters should generally be replaced every 12 months or 15,000 kilometres. Warning signs include reduced airflow and unpleasant odours coming from the vents.
Battery health is about more than starting power
Modern vehicles place heavy demands on their batteries thanks to increasingly complex technology.
A weakening battery can trigger system glitches, warning lights, and sensor failures, and, in some cases, leave a car unable to start.
Regular battery health checks are essential to avoid inconvenient breakdowns and costly repairs.
Tyre age matters even if the tread looks fine.
Tyres may look healthy, but rubber degrades over time regardless of tread depth. Most tyres have a lifespan of around six years, after which the risk of failure increases.
Drivers can check tyre age by reading the DOT code on the sidewall, with the final four digits indicating the week and year of manufacture.
Monitoring tyre age is crucial to reduce the risk of blowouts or accidents.
While oil changes and tyre pressure checks remain important, keeping a vehicle safe and reliable requires attention to these often-overlooked areas.
A little preventative care can save money over time and deliver peace of mind every time you turn the key.
