As a driver, it's essential to understand the basics about your car to ensure your safety, maintain the vehicle, and avoid costly repairs. Here are 5 things every driver should know about their car:

1. How to Check and Maintain Fluid Levels

Oil: Regularly checking your car's oil is crucial for engine health. Low oil can cause engine damage, while dirty oil can reduce performance. Most cars have a dipstick to measure oil levels, and you should top it off or change it when needed.
Coolant: Your car's engine needs coolant (antifreeze) to regulate temperature and prevent overheating. Check your coolant level and make sure it’s mixed properly (usually with water) and topped up, especially before long trips or in extreme temperatures.
Brake Fluid & Power Steering Fluid: These fluids are vital for safe and smooth driving. If you're unsure about how to check them, consult your owner's manual for specific instructions.

2. Tire Pressure and Condition

Tire Pressure: Maintaining proper tire pressure is essential for safety, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity. Underinflated tires increase wear and can cause unsafe driving conditions. Check tire pressure regularly (especially before long drives) and always follow the recommended pressure in the car’s manual or sticker on the driver’s side door frame.
Tire Tread: Worn-out tires with shallow tread won’t grip the road well, especially in wet conditions, increasing the risk of hydroplaning. Check the tread depth and replace tires when they start to wear down.

3. Understanding Warning Lights and What They Mean

Dashboard Lights: Your car's dashboard lights serve as early warnings about potential issues. Familiarize yourself with the most common symbols (e.g., check engine light, oil pressure warning, tire pressure warning). If any lights stay on after starting the car or during driving, it's important to address them promptly to avoid further damage.
What to Do: If a warning light comes on, consult your owner’s manual to understand its meaning. For some lights, like the oil pressure or brake warning, it’s crucial to pull over and get help immediately. For others, like a low fuel light, you may just need to take action when convenient.

4. Your Car’s Maintenance Schedule

Scheduled Maintenance: Every car has a recommended maintenance schedule that includes oil changes, brake checks, tire rotations, air filter replacements, and more. Following this schedule is key to keeping your car running smoothly and preventing expensive repairs down the road.
Owner’s Manual: Your vehicle’s manual will have all the information about when to perform specific tasks and what parts need attention at certain intervals.

5. How to Jump-Start a Dead Battery

Battery Basics: Car batteries can die for many reasons, but knowing how to jump-start a dead battery can save you a lot of hassle. Always keep jumper cables in your car, and make sure you know how to use them. Here’s a basic overview:

1. Park both cars close but not touching. Turn off both engines.
2. Connect the positive (red) cable to the positive terminal of the dead battery, then to the working battery.
3. Connect the negative (black) cable to the negative terminal of the working battery and then to a metal part of the dead car’s engine (not the battery) as a ground.
4. Start the working car, then try starting the dead car.
5. If it doesn’t start, the battery might need to be replaced.