10 Essential Car Care Tips for Maintenance and Performance

Your car isn’t just something that gets you from point A to point B. It’s a big investment and a part of your everyday routine. Just like anything else you value, it deserves regular care and attention. 

Taking care of it consistently doesn’t just help it last longer. It also keeps it running safely and smoothly. Plus, a well-maintained car can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. A little effort today can go a long way in ensuring stress-free drives tomorrow.

Whether you’re trying to boost performance, save on fuel, or just enjoy a more comfortable ride, these 10 car care tips will help you keep your car in great shape.

Why Car Care and Maintenance Is Essential?

Did you know that with proper maintenance, many modern cars can last between 200,000 to 300,000 miles? That’s equivalent to driving around the Earth 8 to 12 times! Here’s why staying on top of your car care routine really pays off.

• Prevents Costly Repairs: Catching small issues early (like low oil, worn-out brakes, or a dirty air filter) can save you from expensive breakdowns or major repairs later.

• Prolong Vehicle Life: Routine maintenance like fluid checks, battery care, and alignments keeps your car running reliably for years—sometimes even decades.

• Improves Fuel Efficiency: Clean air filters, properly inflated tires, and regular oil changes all help your car run more efficiently, saving you money at the pump.

Taking a few simple steps on a regular basis can go a long way in keeping your vehicle running its best. To help you get started, here are 10 quick and easy car care tips to boost performance and keep your car in top condition.

10 Quick and Easy Car Care Tips to Boost Performance

A well-maintained car isn't just about shiny paint or clean seats—it's about safety, performance, and saving money in the long run. From tyre checks to fluid top-ups, here are 10 smart car care tips that make a real difference.

1. Wash Your Car Regularly

A spotless car doesn't just turn heads—it speaks volumes about how you care for what you drive. Over time, dirt, grime, and pollutants can damage your vehicle’s paint and finish, potentially leading to rust and deterioration.

Pro Tip: Regular washing also improves visibility by keeping windows, mirrors, and lights clear of dust and debris.

We at ScrubUp offer convenient mobile car wash services across Dubai, including Eco Wash, Pressure Wash, and Steam Wash—each tailored to suit your car’s specific needs.

Book your wash now via WhatsApp, mobile apps (Play Store and App Store), and keep your car shining without leaving home!

2. Check Tyre Pressure 

Maintaining the right tire pressure is essential for safety, fuel efficiency, and overall driving comfort. When your tires are properly inflated, you get better traction, stability, and grip on the road, reducing the risk of accidents. It also helps improve fuel efficiency by reducing rolling resistance, so you’ll get more miles per gallon.

Correct tire pressure ensures even wear across the tread, which extends the life of your tires. It also boosts your car's handling and responsiveness, making your driving experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Regularly checking and adjusting your tyre pressure is a simple but important step to keep your car running safely and efficiently.

3. Maintain Oil Levels and Quality

Changing your oil regularly is essential for keeping your engine running smoothly and lasting longer. It also helps you get the best fuel efficiency. Engine oil has additives like anti-wear agents, detergents, and dispersants that keep your engine in top shape. If you don't change your oil on time, these additives break down and lose their power, leaving your engine more vulnerable to wear and tear.

Oil is the lifeblood of your engine, keeping parts lubricated and running smoothly. Skipping oil changes or letting oil levels drop too low can lead to costly engine damage. Follow your vehicle’s manual for recommended intervals, and check oil levels between changes. If the oil looks dark and gritty, it’s time for a change.

4. Change Air Filters

Your air filter works hard behind the scenes, keeping dust, debris, and grime from sneaking into your engine. But when it gets clogged, your car can start feeling sluggish, and if ignored for too long, it can even lead to engine trouble.

Experts recommend replacing it every 12,000–15,000 miles, or as specified in your owner's manual.

The good news? Checking it yourself is pretty simple. Here’s how you can do it.

• Pop open the bonnet and look for a plastic box connected to the engine by a tube—that’s your air filter housing.

• It’s usually secured with a few clips. Unfasten those to open the lid.

• Inside, you’ll find the air filter. It’s usually a rectangular frame with layers of cotton, paper, foam, or a mix of materials.

• Gently pull it out and inspect it. If it looks dark, dusty, or packed with debris, it’s time for a replacement.

  
  

A clean air filter helps your engine breathe better, which means smoother performance and improved fuel efficiency. It’s also one of those small things that make a big difference in your car’s overall health.

Pair it with a car wash! Fresh air filter + clean car = double the satisfaction. Book your next wash with ScrubUp to complete your maintenance routine.

5. Check Fluid Levels

Your car runs on more than just fuel—brake fluid, transmission fluid, coolant, and washer fluid all need regular checks.

• Brake Fluid: Open the hood, locate the reservoir (usually a white container), and ensure the level is between the minimum and maximum marks. Top up if needed and keep it clean.

• Transmission Fluid (for automatics): Warm up the engine, pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and check the level. Top up with the right fluid if it’s low.

• Coolant and washer Fluid: Check these often, especially in winter. Running low on washer fluid can even result in a fine if it affects visibility.

  
  

Pro Tip: Check these monthly or before long trips, and top them up as needed. If you’re unsure, your mechanic can do a quick inspection.

6. Inspect Your Brakes

Brake pads, discs, and callipers tend to wear out over time, and the best way to spot issues early is by paying attention while you drive.

If your car pulls to one side when braking, takes longer to stop, or you hear grinding or squealing sounds, it’s time for a check-up. Modern vehicles also come with brake warning lights on the dashboard, so if one lights up, don’t wait. Get it checked by a professional before a small issue turns into a big problem.

7. Protect the Interior

The inside of your car deserves just as much attention as the outside. If you spend a lot of time in your vehicle, things like dust, crumbs, and spills can quickly accumulate, leading to worn-out upholstery and faded surfaces. Over time, the sun can also cause the dashboard and seats to crack or discolour.

A few simple habits can protect your car's interior. Use sunshades to block UV rays, vacuum seats and carpets regularly, and wipe down the dashboard to keep things fresh. For leather seats, apply conditioner to prevent cracks, and clean fabric interiors with fabric-friendly products to avoid stains and odours.

8. Wiper Maintenance for Better Visibility

Worn-out wiper blades can seriously affect your visibility, making driving in bad weather much more dangerous. Over time, wipers can crack, get damaged, or lose their effectiveness, leaving streaks or missed spots on your windshield. This can obstruct your view and create a serious safety risk.

You might also notice annoying noises or vibrations when the blades are worn, which can be distracting while driving. Replacing your wiper blades ensures that rain, snow, dirt, and debris are cleared away quickly, giving you a clear view and safer driving conditions.

As soon as you notice any wear or performance issues, it’s time to replace the blades. This small change can make a big difference in your driving comfort, especially when the weather takes a turn for the worse.

9. Keep the Battery in Good Condition

Your car’s battery is easy to overlook—until it fails. A weak or dead battery is one of the most common reasons for breakdowns, especially if your car hasn’t been driven in a while. That’s why it’s important to check your battery regularly. 

Start by inspecting the terminals for any signs of corrosion and keeping them clean. Before long trips, it’s a good idea to test the battery’s charge. Many modern cars come with built-in battery monitors (accessible via the manufacturer's app), or you can use a manual monitor or a trickle charger to keep it topped up when not in use. If your battery is over three to five years old, consider having it tested or replaced.

Pro Tip: Carry a pair of jump leads just in case. They're a lifesaver when you least expect it.

10. Don’t Ignore Your Wheel Alignment

Wheel alignment might not be the first thing you think about when it comes to car care tips, but it plays a huge role in how your vehicle performs.

When your wheels are properly aligned, your tires wear out evenly, meaning they last longer, and you won’t be replacing them as often. It also helps your car handle better, so your steering feels smoother and more responsive, especially on highways or curvy roads.

Alignment even affects your fuel economy! Misaligned wheels create extra resistance, which makes your engine work harder and use more fuel. Keeping things in line saves you money at the pump.

Good alignment also protects your suspension system from unnecessary wear and tear, which means fewer surprise repairs down the road. And of course, when everything is aligned, your car stays more stable and safer to drive in all kinds of road conditions.

Pro Tip: Get your alignment checked once a year—or sooner if you’ve hit a big pothole or notice your car pulling to one side. Staying on top of these small things adds up to a

smoother, safer ride—and once your car’s running right, it deserves to look the part too.

That’s where we at ScrubUp come in!

How ScrubUp Can Help?

Maintaining your car’s performance goes beyond mechanics—it’s also about keeping it clean and well-presented. Here’s what ScrubUp offers:

• Eco car wash: A quick, eco-friendly wash that gives your car a clean finish while saving every drop. It includes full interior cleaning and vacuuming, with an option to get just the exterior cleaned if you prefer. It takes about 35 to 45 minutes and starts from AED 39. It’s the ideal choice for eco-conscious drivers who want their car to shine without wasting water.

• Pressure car: If your car’s been through mud, rain, or a dusty week, our Pressure Wash is the deep-clean you need. Using thick foam and a high-pressure washer, this service tackles dirt, mud, and debris. It includes both exterior and interior cleaning, tyre and rim care, air freshener, and vacuuming. The full service takes about 60 minutes and is priced at AED 65.

• Steam car wash: For those looking for the ultimate clean, our Steam Wash uses high-heat steam to remove tough dirt and bacteria—no mess, no water runoff. It’s gentle on all surfaces but tough on grime. Like the Pressure Wash, it includes exterior and interior washing, as well as vacuuming. It also takes 60 minutes and costs AED 105.

  
  

Book your service today via WhatsApp, our mobile app (Play Store and App Store), or website. 

FAQs

1. How often should I get a car wash? Most experts suggest giving your car a wash every two weeks to keep it looking its best and to protect the paint from long-term damage. ScrubUp’s flexible mobile service ensures your car stays spotless whenever you need it. Whether you prefer a quick Eco Wash to save water, a powerful Pressure Wash for tough dirt, or a deep-cleaning Steam Wash for a hygienic, water-free shine—our team brings the right service straight to your doorstep.

2. What are the benefits of using ScrubUp’s mobile car wash service? With ScrubUp, you're not just getting a clean car. You're saving valuable time, avoiding long queues at traditional car washes, and enjoying premium service right at your doorstep. 👉 Book your wash with ScrubUp today and see the difference!

3. What types of car wash services does ScrubUp offer? We provide Eco Wash, Pressure Wash, and Steam Wash options—each tailored to your vehicle’s condition and your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick refresh or a deep clean, there’s a service that fits perfectly.

👉 Check out the pricing and details for each service here and choose the one that suits your needs best!

4. Can I book a car wash using WhatsApp? Absolutely! Booking a car wash with us is as easy as sending a message on WhatsApp. Simply reach out, let us know the service you’d like, and we’ll take care of the rest. You’ll receive prompt confirmation, and we’ll schedule a time that works best for you, bringing the car wash directly to your location.

Click here to book on WhatsApp.