10 Car Maintenance Checks Before You Scrap Your Car

Introduction

Regular car maintenance keeps your vehicle safe and efficient, and helps extend its lifespan. By following simple scheduled checks, you can prevent costly breakdowns and ensure your car remains dependable and road-ready. This guide includes key checks you can carry out yourself or with a mechanic. You don’t need special equipment—just a bit of focus and a routine. We will highlight key maintenance areas such as oil, tires, fluids, brakes, filters, belts, the battery, and lights.

Each section will show what you are looking for, when to remove a vehicle from the road, and the specific car parts that require regular inspection. At the end, you will also learn how Greenway Auto Recycling can assist with scrap car removal, helping you complete your vehicle’s final journey safely and responsibly.

10 Maintenance Checklists to Keep Your Vehicle in the Best Condition

1. Engine oil and oil filter
   Clean oil keeps engine parts working smoothly, reduces heat and wear, and assists fuel economy. You should check the oil level once per month, or just before a long drive. Park the vehicle on level ground, allow the engine to cool, pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, insert it back fully, then pull the dipstick out again. The oil level should be between the low level mark and the high level mark. If the oil level is low or the oil appears dark, you should top it up or replace the oil and oil filter. A new engine oil and oil filter combination will result in a cleaner engine and reduce breakdown potential.
2. Check your tires and tire alignment
   Good tires contribute to grip, good braking distance, and fuel economy. Consider checking tread depth regularly. If the tread is worn down to the wear bars, it’s time to replace your tires. Check your tires for bulges, cracks, and uneven wear. Always have the air pressure to what is listed in the owner’s manual or door jamb on the driver’s side. Too low or too high air pressure can cause uneven tire wear and affect vehicle handling. In addition, tires should be rotated every 5,000–7,000 miles to promote even wear. Proper wheel alignment helps ensure safety, prolongs tire life, and maintains steering smoothness.
3. Brake System
   Brakes are one of the most important safety features on your car. Listening for unusual sounds while braking—such as squeaking or grinding—or noticing a soft pedal are all causes for concern. Check your brake pads, discs, and fluid. If your pads are thinner than ¼ inch, you should replace them. Discs showing deep grooves and heavy wear or scoring will need to be either replaced or resurfaced. Brake fluid should remain clear and within the “min” and “max” range. If brake fluid is low or darkly stained, this may indicate excessive wear or a leaky caliper. Brake fluid should be changed according to your owner’s manual, or at least every two years. In any case, maintaining your brakes could save a life.
4. Fluid Levels
   Your car uses several fluids to run properly. Checking fluid levels is essential, including coolant/antifreeze, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid.
5. Air Filter and Cabin Filter
   Filters prevent dust, pollen, and dirt from getting into your engine and passenger compartment. Check the engine air filter about every 12,000–15,000 miles. If it appears dark or clogged, replace it. A clean air filter improves airflow, fuel efficiency, and overall engine performance. Cabin air filters should be cleaned or replaced every 15,000–20,000 miles, or sooner if you drive in dusty conditions. Clean cabin air filters reduce dust and allergens, improving air quality and reducing strain on HVAC systems.
   Also Read: How Much Does a Safety Inspection Cost in Ontario?
6. Belts and Hoses
   Belts and hoses are necessary for the fan, water pump, AC, and more, so if they wear out or break, the engine cannot run. They can crack, fray, or leak. Look for cracks, bulges, or fraying. Belt tension should feel tight but have a little give. Replace belts based on visible wear or roughly every 60,000–100,000 miles. For hoses, squeeze gently if they are cold and replace ones that are soft and spongy, as well as those that are hard. Replace the clamps if rusted. Fresh belts and hoses allow the engine to run freely and prevent overheating or loss of accessories while driving.
7. Battery and Electrical System
   The battery and charging system are what make the engine turn over and turn on the lights and any accessories. When you see corrosion, remember to clean battery terminals with a mixture of baking soda and water. Keep the clamps tight and free of sparks. Check for voltage at the battery: it should read 12.6 V when off, and 13.7 V or more when the engine is running; if it is low, the alternator may be weak, or the battery may need to be replaced. Batteries are typically changed every 3 – 5 years, or if electrical systems are acting weak.
8. Lights, Wipers, and Windshield
   Most people are aware of how lights help you see and help others to see you when you drive. You should check the headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals on your vehicle at least once a month. If any lights are burned out, replace them immediately. If the lights’ lenses are cloudy from bugs or dirt, be sure to clean them so the light is bright and clear. Windshield wipers are important for safety while driving in rain and snow. Change your wiper blades at least once a year and more often, every 6–12 months, if skipping, streaking, or tearing. When you wash your vehicle, clean the windshield, making sure any dings and cracks are repaired before they get worse. Good visibility while driving is vital for safety and can save lives.
   Also Read: Why You Should Only Scrap Your Car with a Licensed Recycler in Ontario
9. Exhaust System
   The exhaust system channels gases, reduces noise, and helps manage emissions. Rust holes and loose parts could be very noisy, reduce gas mileage, and increase emissions. Have a technician check your system for rust patches, leaks, soot marks, and broken hangers. If you hear a rattling sound coming from under the car, it could mean the clamps or hangers are loose. If you are leaking somewhere in your exhaust system, it will affect your oxygen sensors, reduce engine performance, and pollute the air.
10. Suspension and Steering
    A smooth ride and accurate steering depend on suspension and steering components that are not worn out. Are you experiencing bumpy rides, drifting in the corners, or a shaking steering wheel on rough roads? If so, it could mean worn shocks, struts, bushings, or ball joints. A mechanic should check them out if necessary. Worn shocks make the ride feel harsh, but they also contribute to faster tire wear and compound braking inefficiency.

Conclusion

Routine care helps your car perform better, last longer, and be less costly over time. Missing those checks can lead to breakdowns, which also bring unsafe situations and larger repair bills. With some simple items on a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis, you can protect your investment and yourself.

Now, of course, if you decide it is time to part with your ride, Greenway Auto Recycling aids you in responsibly closing the loop. We provide complete scrap car removal, dispose of your license plate correctly, and guide you through all the required legal steps. Our team guides you through the final step seamlessly and securely, ensuring the process is simple and stress-free.