Car Maintenance: 5 Things You’re Probably Forgetting (and How To Do Them Cheap)

Owning a car is like being in a relationship — it needs attention, care and regular check-ups to keep it running smoothly.

While most of us remember the basics like oil changes and tire rotations, there are a few things that often slip the mind. But fret not, dear reader. Here’s a look at five often-forgotten car maintenance tasks that you can do on the cheap.

You know that thing that keeps the air inside your car clean? Yeah, the cabin air filter. When was the last time you checked it?

A dirty filter can reduce air quality inside your car, leading to unpleasant odors and potentially aggravating allergies. The good news is, replacing it is as easy as pie and doesn’t require a trip to the mechanic.

Do-It-Yourself:

Buy a replacement filter online or at an auto parts store (they usually range from $15 to $25), and pop it in yourself. Your car’s manual will have specific instructions, but it typically involves opening the glove box and swapping out the old filter for the new one.

Voilà, you’re breathing easy again!

Dim headlights don’t just make your car look sad; they’re a safety hazard too. Over time, the covers can become cloudy or yellowed, significantly reducing your visibility at night.

Do-It-Yourself:

There’s no need for expensive kits or professional help. Grab some toothpaste (yes, toothpaste), rub it on the headlights with a cloth and then rinse off with water.

For tougher grime, baking soda and vinegar can also work wonders.

The spare tire is often the most neglected part of a car. It’s out of sight and out of mind until you actually need it.

But imagine the horror of discovering your spare is flat or in bad shape when you’re already stranded.

Do-It-Yourself:

Every month, take a moment to check the air pressure and condition of your spare tire.

Keeping it properly inflated is free if you have an air compressor at home, or it’s a small fee at a gas station. Regularly inspect it for any damage or wear.

This proactive step could save you a lot of headaches (and money) down the road.

Squeaky doors and sticky locks aren’t just annoying; they can also lead to bigger issues if left unattended. Thankfully, this is one of the easiest and cheapest fixes on our list.

Do-It-Yourself:

All you need is a can of silicone spray or WD-40. A quick spray on the hinges and locks will keep everything moving smoothly and prevent rust and wear.

Just make sure to wipe away any excess to avoid attracting dirt.

Your brake fluid is like the blood of your car’s braking system. It needs to be clean and at the right level to work correctly.

Over time, it can become contaminated with water and other debris, which can lead to brake failure.

Do-It-Yourself:

Checking your brake fluid is simple and only takes a minute.

Pop the hood of your car and find the brake fluid reservoir. The fluid should be clear or slightly yellow. If it’s dark or dirty, it’s time to change it.

While changing the brake fluid yourself can be a bit more involved, there are plenty of tutorials online that can guide you through the process for just the cost of the fluid.

Taking care of your car doesn’t have to be costly. With a little bit of effort and some DIY spirit, you can keep your ride in prime condition without spending tons of cash.

Editor's note: This article was produced via automated technology and then fine-tuned and verified for accuracy by a member of GOBankingRates' editorial team.