14 car maintenance tips every owner should know

October 23, 2026

Planning ahead
Auto insurance

A mechanic in gloves uses a wrench to work on the underside of a raised vehicle in a garage.

Staying on top of routine maintenance like oil changes, fluid checks and tire care helps keep your car safe and reliable on Canadian roads.
Canadian winters bring extra challenges, from road salt to freeze-thaw cycles, making seasonal checks on your battery, tires and fluids especially important.
Knowing provincial rules, like Quebec’s winter tire law, can help you stay compliant and avoid fines.
A quick check-in with a VIU by HUB broker can make sure your insurance coverage still matches your vehicle and circumstances.

Proper car maintenance keeps your car running smoothly and may even help you avoid accidents. Check your owner’s manual or consult with your dealer for repairs and upkeep specific to your vehicle.

1. Update your insurance policy
Regularly check your coverage to make sure your policy is still right for your current vehicle. A VIU by HUB broker offers neutral advice to help you find the right coverage at the right price for your current circumstances.

2. Change the oil
Keep your engine lubricated and your fuel efficiency at its peak.

3. Check your spare tire
Make sure that it’s ready to use in case of a flat tire.

4. Clean your vehicle regularly
Beyond preventing rust, especially given Canadian winters and road salt, regular washes help improve visibility by removing debris from windows, mirrors and headlights.

5. Replace your air filter
A dirty filter can reduce airflow into the engine and lead to buildup that will require servicing.

6. Check fluid levels
Each of the essential fluids such as oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid and washer fluid does its part to keep your car on the road. In colder climates, make sure your coolant and washer fluid are rated for Canadian winter temperatures.

7. Replace brake pads
Braking is essential and you don’t want yours to fail in an emergency, particularly on icy or snow-covered roads.

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8. Pay attention to your tires
Monitor the tire tread, rotate them regularly and keep the air pressure at the proper level. Remember in Quebec, winter tires are legally required from Dec. 1 to March 15.

9. Get new windshield wipers
This will help keep your windshield clear during rain, sleet and snow, or while driving on a particularly dusty road.

10. Keep the battery clean
Corrosion can shorten the lifespan of your battery and reduce performance, and cold Canadian winters can significantly reduce battery capacity, so regular checks are especially important.

11. Clean the radiator
A dirty or broken radiator can cause your engine to overheat, leading to damage.

12. Test headlights and tail lights
Driving with missing or hazy headlights can reduce your visibility and put you at risk. Having any light out can result in a fine and legal consequences under provincial Highway Traffic Acts.

13. Check your suspension system
A worn-out suspension can cause a ripple effect of problems in other areas, including your tires. Canadian roads, with their potholes and freeze-thaw cycles, can be particularly hard on suspension components.

14. Don’t skip scheduled car maintenance services
Regular maintenance can spot potential issues, saving you money, time and stress while keeping you safe on Canadian roads year-round.