Car Maintenance Tips & Checklist

This guide will delve into the importance of regular car maintenance and its benefits and provide you with a comprehensive car maintenance checklist.

Benefits of regular maintenance

Regular car maintenance is not just a good practice; it's a necessity. Some important reasons why you should prioritise routine maintenance include:

Preventing breakdowns

One of the primary advantages of regular car maintenance is that it helps prevent unexpected breakdowns. Routine inspections and servicing can catch minor issues before they escalate into major problems, leaving you stranded on the side of the road.

Reducing repair costs

Fixing a minor issue early on is significantly cheaper than dealing with a major repair. Neglecting maintenance can lead to costly repairs down the line, whereas timely attention to your car's needs can save you a substantial amount of money.

Maintaining resale value

A well-maintained car retains its resale value better than a neglected one. If you ever decide to sell or trade in your Volvo, you'll get a better return on your investment if your car has a documented history of regular maintenance.

Car maintenance checklist

Now, let's dive into the heart of our guide – the car maintenance checklist. We've divided it into two sections: monthly maintenance tasks and seasonal maintenance tasks.

Good to know is that with a newer Volvo, you won't have to spend much time on maintenance, as the car, in many ways, helps takes care of itself. The car will, for example, notify you if the oil needs to be changed or the tyre pressure is too low. That said, it's always good to keep an eye on your car; there are some simple things you can do yourself.

Monthly maintenance tasks

1. Check engine oil

   In the newer models of Volvo, you will receive a message if your oil levels need to be higher. Having said that, keep an eye on your oil level after all, so you don't have to add oil at the last minute.

   • The oil level can be checked in your car’s centre display.
   • Start your Volvo, open the app Car Status in the centre display, and choose Status.
   • You’ll now see your car’s oil level in the display.




2. Check AdBlue level

   If you have a diesel Volvo, you will need to top up with AdBlue. Like with the oil, you will receive a message if the AdBlue level is getting too low, but if you want to check manually, it can be done.

   • The AdBlue level can be checked in your car’s centre display.
   • Start your Volvo, open the app Car Status in the centre display, and choose Status.
   • You’ll now see your car’s AdBlue level in the display.




3. Inspect tyres

   You will receive a warning message if your tyre pressure is too low. In other words, you shouldn't have to worry about your tyre pressure, but checking this manually is never wrong.

   • Check your tyre pressure with a tyre pressure gauge and maintain it per the recommendations in your owner’s manual.
   • Inspect tyre tread for wear and tear. Replace tyres if necessary.




4. Test lights and signals

   Testing lights and signals are an important and easy-to-test part of car maintenance. Ask a friend or family member to get into your car and operate the lights while you walk around the car and check that everything is working as it should.

   • Test all exterior lights, including headlights, taillights, turn signals, and brake lights.
   • Replace any bulbs that are burnt out.




5. Check windshield washer fluid

   It’s always important to ensure your car isn’t about to run out of windshield washer fluid. All you have to do is top up with washer fluid until you see it is full.

   • Locate where you top up the washer fluid and add more until you see that the reservoir is full. Using a funnel when you add more is recommended so you don't spill.




6. Clean cameras, radars and sensors

   In order for your Volvo's cameras, radars and sensors to work properly, it is important that you keep them clean of dirt, snow and ice.

   • Clean your cameras and sensors with lukewarm water and car shampoo. Be careful when cleaning them so they don't get scratched.

Seasonal maintenance tasks

1. Replace wiper blades
Ensure your wiper blades are in good condition, as visibility is crucial during adverse weather.
2. Check towbar
Park your car and test so that your towbar can be folded in and out.
3. Warning triangle and reflective vest
Should an accident happen, you must have a warning triangle and reflective vest in your car. Of course, you do not need to check this frequently, but make sure that you have this in your car.

Specialised maintenance for electric and hybrid cars:

There are specific maintenance considerations if you own an electric or hybrid Volvo. Important to know is that you should never try to do anything within the car’s engine yourself as it contains high-voltage batteries that can deliver a fatal shock.

Battery maintenance

Monitor your battery's state of charge regularly and follow recommended charging habits. Avoid deep discharges and overcharging, as these can affect battery life.

Specialised service requirements

Electric and hybrid cars have unique components, such as electric motors and regenerative braking systems, which may require specialised servicing. Always consult your Volvo retailer for maintenance specific to your car model.

Common maintenance mistakes to avoid

While maintaining your car, it's essential to avoid common mistakes, such as:

• Neglecting routine maintenance tasks
• Ignoring warning lights and strange noises
• Using incorrect or subpar replacement parts
• Overlooking tyre maintenance

To avoid these mistakes, stick to your car's maintenance schedule, pay attention to any unusual signs or sounds, use Volvo Genuine Parts, and stay vigilant about your tyre's health.

The benefits of professional maintenance

Not all car maintenance tasks require professional assistance, but some do. Here's a general guideline:

• You can handle basic tasks like checking oil levels, inspecting tyres and topping up with windshield washer fluid.
• More complex tasks, such as brake repairs, electrical issues, and engine diagnostics, should be entrusted to professionals.

Regular car maintenance is an investment in your car's longevity, safety, and reliability. Whether you drive a conventional, hybrid or electric Volvo, following a car maintenance checklist is essential for preventing breakdowns, reducing repair costs, and maintaining resale value. By adhering to these guidelines and seeking professional help when needed, you can help ensure that your Volvo remains a reliable companion with safety on the road for years to come.

Frequently asked questions

Can I perform all car maintenance tasks by myself, or do I need professional help?

While car owners can perform some maintenance tasks, knowing your limits is essential. Basic tasks like inspecting tyres and testing lights can be done at home, but more complex issues should be left to professionals. And as we mentioned earlier, if you have a hybrid or electric car, you should never tamper with the engine yourself. It contains high-voltage batteries that can deliver a fatal shock.

By scheduling your Volvo Car Service at an authorised workshop, we ensure that your car is cared for by certified Volvo technicians who exclusively use Volvo Genuine Parts.

What routine maintenance is required for a car?

Routine maintenance includes tasks like testing lights, inspecting tyres and cleaning your car’s cameras and sensors. Following your car's maintenance schedule in the owner's manual is crucial.

What is the checklist for car service?

A car service checklist typically includes oil and filter changes, tyre rotations, brake inspections, and fluid level checks. The specific tasks may vary depending on your car's model.

What is Volvo Healthcheck?

Volvo Healthcheck is a comprehensive car inspection service offered by Volvo Service Centres. It includes a thorough examination of your car's key components to ensure its overall health and performance. It's a proactive way to identify and address potential issues before they become major problems.