Maintenance is the key for longevity, reliability and performance.   It is something most people ignore and then we wonder what went wrong when the vehicle stops functioning.    Looking after your vehicle involves more than taking care of its external coat of paint and keeping it clean and shiny. Maintenance means taking care of all the parts especially the internal parts.   These  are  the  ones  that  directly  concern   the performance of your vehicle. Besides taking it to the service station at regular periods, it is a good idea to go through the owner's manual that will give a fair idea about its routine maintenance. Checking the battery, keeping a check on the oils, changing the oils, checking the electrical system, are some of the absolutely unavoidable things to keep your vehicle in good shape. Keeping a log book in which you keep all the details regarding repair, maintenance, routine check-ups etc. will give you an accurate idea of what needs to be done when.

Maintenance Tips:
Many of us do consider our cars as an important part of our asset and we do hope that it serves us well. A well maintained vehicle speaks volumes about you as an owner. Read on for tips on specifics.

Engine Oil:
To prevent engine deterioration, it is imperative that the engine maintains the amount of oil it is programmed to receive. Negligence in this aspect will lead to a deteriorating engine performance, resulting in falling mileage.

Fuses:
Most Indian cars are made with an   circuitry system that use fuses. Knowledge of the system would help when you are stranded due to a blown fuse.

Lights:
It is important for the lights to be properly focused, for your own and for the oncoming vehicle's safety. Travel on low beam so that it does not obstruct your view instead of helping you along.

Tyre Pressure:
The required amount of air pressure needs to be strictly maintained if your car is to get the right mileage and pick-up.

Water:
If your engine uses water for cooling, take care to ensure that it is regularly changed. Water can also be used for cleaning the windshield.

Some other tips...
1.    Get your vehicle serviced only at authorized service stations
2.    Check the engine oil level once every two weeks. Also check the levels of coolant and water    in  the radiator and battery.
3.    Always use genuine spare parts.
4.    Give your vehicle anti-rust coating before the monsoons.
5.    Avoid accelerating and braking abruptly.
6.    Shut up the engine whenever you expect to wait.
7.    Drive at a moderate speed of 45-55 km/h to maximize fuel efficiency.
8.    Use air-conditioning only when necessary.
9.    Avoid riding on the clutch pedal, and release the clutch pedal fully while driving.
10.  Maintain optimum air pressure in your tyre to improve mileage.

Air filter :
Check it every month. Replace it when it becomes dirty or as part of a tune -up. It is easy to reach, right under the big metal 'lid', in a carbureted engine; or in a rectangular box at the forward end of the air in a duct hose assembly.

Battery :
Extreme caution should be taken while handling a battery since it can produce explosive gases. It is advisable not to smoke, create a spark or light a match near a battery. Always wear protective glasses and gloves.

Belts :
Inspect belts and hoses smoothly. Replace glazed, worn or frayed belts. Replace bulging, rotten or brittle hoses and tighten clamps. If a hose looks bad, or feels too soft or too hard, it should be replaced.

Brake Fluid :
Check the brake fluid monthly. First wipe dirt from the brake master cylinder reservoir lid. Pry off the retainer clip and remove the lid or unscrew the plastic lid, depending on which type your vehicle has. If you need fluid, add the improved type and check for possible leaks throughout the system. Do not overfill.

Engine Oil :
Check the oil after every fill up. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean. Insert it fully and remove it again. If it is low, add oil. To maintain peak performance, the oil should be changed every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first. Replace the oil filter with every oil change.

Exhaust :
Look underneath for loose or broken exhaust clamps and supports. Check for holes in muffler or pipes. Replace the rusted or damaged parts. Have the emission checked at once per year for compliance with local laws.

Hoses :
Inspect the hoses and belts monthly. The hose should be replaced if it looks bad or feels too soft or too hard.

Lights :
Make sure that all your lights are clean and working, including the brake lights, turn signals and emergency flashers. Keep spare bulbs and fuses in your vehicle.

Oil Filter :
To maintain peak performance, change oil every 3 months or 3,000 kms whichever comes first. Replace oil filter with every oil change.

Power Steering Fluid :
Check the power steering fluid level once per month. Check it by removing the reservoir dipstick. If the level is down, add fluid and inspect the pump and hoses for leaks.

Shock Absorbers :
Look for signs of oil seepage on shock absorbers, test shock action by bouncing the car up and down. The car should stop bouncing when you step back. Worn or leaking shocks should be replaced. Always replace shock absorbers in pairs.

Tyres :
Keep tyres inflated to recommended pressure. Check for cuts, bulges and excessive tread wear. Uneven wear indicates tyres are misaligned or out of balance.

Transmission Fluid Check :
Transmission fluid monthly with engine warm and running, and the parking brake on. Shift to drive, then to park. Remove dipstick, wipe dry, insert it and remove it again. Add the approved type fluid, if needed. Never overfill.

Washer Fluid :
Keep the windshield washer fluid reservoir full. Use some of it to clean off the wiper blades.

Wiper Blades :
Inspect the windscreen wiper blades whenever you clean your windshield. Do not wait until the rubber is worn or brittle to replace them. They should be replaced at least once per year, and more often if smearing occurs.