Car Maintenance Tips to Help Prevent Accidents

One simple way you can help prevent car accidents is to stay on top of car maintenance. While car repairs can feel like a hassle or seem expensive, skipping them is risky. Every year, thousands of accidents happen because of poorly maintained cars.

Here are some key maintenance tips that can help keep you safe on the road. Taking the time to handle these issues now may mean saving yourself from even bigger problems later.

The Importance of Tire Safety

Tires might seem like a small detail, but they play a big role in your safety. In fact, the NHTSA says tire issues caused 562 fatal accidents in 2022.

Here’s what you should look for when checking your tires:

Air pressure. Check your tires regularly to make sure they’re inflated to the right level. You can usually find the correct pressure on a sticker inside the driver’s door. Besides keeping you safe, this also makes your car more fuel efficient! You can purchase an air pressure gauge inexpensively, for around $10. Keep it in your glove box so it’s always handy.
Tread. To check your tire tread, try this: place a quarter into the grooves with George Washington’s head facing down. If you can see his whole head, it’s time for new tires.
Rotation. Have your tires rotated periodically to ensure an even wear on tread.
Check for Recalls. Finally, don’t forget to check for tire recalls. You can search the NHTSA website anytime to see if your tires are affected

Your tires are what keep your car connected to the road. They help you stop, steer, and stay in control. Don’t take chances: replace old, worn-out tires before they cause problems.

Checking for Recalls

Recalls happen when there’s a safety concern, so they’re something you should never ignore.

You might hear about recalls from your car’s manufacturer, dealership, or even your mechanic. But the easiest way to check for any recalls on your car is to use the NHTSA website. The NHTSA website has a quick tool where you can search by your car’s make and model, or even by entering your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) for the most accurate results.

What happens if you do have a recall?

If your car does have a recall, don’t worry—getting it fixed is usually simple. Contact your car’s dealership or an authorized mechanic to schedule the repair. The best part? In most cases, the manufacturer covers the cost of the repair or replacement.

Testing Your Lights and Signals

Make sure that all lights and turn signals are operating correctly. Besides keeping you safe, it’s also required by law here in Washington State (RCW 47.37.020).

Here’s what to check:

Headlights: Test that both high and low beams are working.
Tail Lights: Ensure they illuminate when your headlights are on.
Brake Lights: Confirm they light up when you press the brake pedal.
Turn Signals: Check both front and rear indicators for proper operation.
Hazard Lights: Activate them to see if all four indicators flash simultaneously.
Reverse Lights: Check that they come on when you shift into reverse.

While a burned-out light might seem like a small issue, it can lead to dangerous situations. One of our team members shared a story about driving home one night when she nearly collided with the car in front of her. Both of the car’s brake lights were out, and she didn’t realize it was slowing down until it was almost too late!

Fortunately, most lights are inexpensive and easy to replace. Taking a few minutes to check and fix them can keep you safe, prevent accidents, and help you avoid getting pulled over.

Check Your Wiper Blades and Windshield

In Washington State, we deal with plenty of weather that can make it hard to see the road—like rain, ice, and fog. These conditions can impact both your windshield and wiper blades, making visibility a challenge.

Here’s how to stay prepared:

Inspect your wiper blades regularly: Replace them if they’re worn or streaking.
Keep an ice scraper handy: Store one in your glove box for chilly mornings.
Defrost and clear windows completely: Take the time to scrape off ice and fog before driving.
Wipe your backup camera: After cold or rainy weather, keep your camera clear for safe reversing.

We can’t overstate the importance of that last tip. It’s easy to rush out the door at the last minute, but driving without clear visibility is dangerous. Taking a few extra minutes to prepare your windshield, windows, and backup camera can make all the difference in preventing accidents and staying safe on the road.

Keeping an Eye on Your Car’s Fluids

Staying on top of oil changes is essential for your engine and the overall health of your car. Regular oil changes are also the perfect time to check other vital fluids, including transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, and power steering fluid.

These fluids play a key role in keeping your car running safely and smoothly. Low levels or poor-quality fluids can lead to overheating, reduced braking ability, or even engine failure. Any of these issues could leave you stranded on the side of the road—or worse, contribute to an accident.

If you’re not comfortable checking these fluids yourself, ask your auto mechanic to do it for you during routine maintenance. Staying proactive about fluid maintenance helps you avoid unnecessary risks and keeps your vehicle performing its best.

Tips for Remembering

Now that you’re onboard with prioritizing car maintenance, how can you make sure it actually happens? Here are a few simple tips to help you stay on track:

Set Calendar Reminders
Use your phone or a digital calendar to set recurring reminders for important car maintenance tasks like checking tire pressure, lights, and fluid levels.
Link Maintenance to Regular Activities
Tie your car maintenance checks to regular activities, like filling up your gas tank or washing your car. This makes it easier to remember.
Use Maintenance Apps
Apps like myCarfax, AutoMate, or Drivvo can help track your car’s maintenance schedule, send reminders, and store service history for you.
Create a Checklist for Your Glove Box
Keep a printed checklist in your glove box that includes essential tasks. You can even download a printable version or create one to track your progress.
Mark the Next Maintenance Date on Service Receipts
After each maintenance service, write down the next due date (like for an oil change or tire rotation) on your receipts or on a note in your car to stay on top of upcoming tasks.

Tacoma Injury Lawyers: Here When Need Us

We hope you never need to call us, but if you do, we’re here to help. We offer free, confidential consultations for car accident victims in Tacoma and the surrounding areas. You only pay us if we’re able to secure compensation for you.

To set up a time to chat, call us or fill out the short form on our contact page.