Perform monthly maintenance checks

Reduce the wear and tear on your engine by making sure you’ve got all your fluids topped up. Make time once a month to check your:

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    Oil
    Your car’s oil is the most important fluid to keep on top of, as it lubricates the entire engine. Avoid expensive repairs by making sure your oil is clean and topped up.
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    Transmission fluid
    To get an accurate reading, make sure your car is parked, in neutral, and your engine is running when you check your transmission fluid.
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    Coolant
    Keep your coolant filled up to make sure your engine doesn’t overheat, especially in hot summer months.
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    Brake fluid

    Your car’s brake fluid will go down as your brake pads wear out. If your brake fluid is too low, you’ll need to top it up and get your brakes inspected.

Get regular car services

Professional car services are recommended every 10,000kms for your logbook, or yearly if your car’s not under warranty. Regular car services will help you avoid the most common causes of breakdowns. Your service will often include all, or most of the following checks:

  • Engine and oil filter
  • Brakes
  • Steering and suspension
  • Fluid levels
  • Battery test
  • Tyre pressure
  • Radiator components
  • Fan belt
  • Lights

Listen and feel for changes

Get to know what’s normal for your car. If you start to feel or hear anything different, you may be at risk of a breakdown. Common signs your car may break down include:

  • Vibrating
  • Struggling to start
  • Engine cutting out
  • Smoke or exhaust fumes
  • Whirring, humming or whining noise
  • Bunny hopping

If your vehicle is not running its best, get it checked by a mechanic straight away rather than waiting for a problem. You could save time and money by fixing a small issue now instead of paying for expensive repairs later.

Make sure your car is road trip ready

If you’re going on a road trip or buying a used car, a vehicle inspection will help identify issues you may not see straight away. It’s worth getting this professional service to keep you and your family safe on the road.

What to do in a breakdown

Even after following all the best advice, your car may still break down. It will happen to most of us and the best thing you can do is be prepared. Buying roadside assistance is one way to ensure there’s reliable help you can call on 24/7. Most cars can be fixed roadside, so you could be on your way again in no time. While you’re waiting for help, follow some simple breakdown safety instructions:

  • Park in an emergency breakdown bay
  • Turn your hazard lights on
  • Keep your seat belt on

Following these steps will help keep everyone safe.

Things to note

Terms, conditions and exclusions apply. For full details read the Roadside Terms and Conditions.

The information in this article has been prepared for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal advice or specific advice to any particular person. Any advice contained in the document is general advice, not intended as legal advice or professional advice and does not take into account any person’s particular circumstances. Before acting on anything based on this advice you should consider its appropriateness to you, having regard to your objectives and needs.