1. Maintain your oil.
If you don’t properly maintain the oil levels, the engine can overheat and even blow up. Have your oil checked every three months or three thousand miles. Just like going to your stylist, it’s a must-do.*

2. Check your tires.
A good trick to check the tread on your tires is to stick a penny in between the tread. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, the tires are worn down and it’s time for new ones! Make sure that you are always checking your air pressure as well—once a week is ideal. Properly inflated tires will give you much better gas mileage.*

3. Check your windshield wipers for wear.
If they are worn down in poor condition, you could be at risk for a serious safety hazard during the next downpour.*

4. Check your coolant level.
Your coolant is something that your engine can’t live without. This is something that you can DIY. Review your owner’s manual to determine where the coolant reservoir is. Wait until your engine is cool and take a look at it; the outside should have low and high markings on it and the level of coolant inside should be between the two.*

5. Check your engine belts.
Have your engine belts checked every year or two, and replace them at every 50,000 miles. The belts live in the front of your engine and loop around various pulleys, fueling everything from the alternator to the air conditioner compressor. Rubber perishes, especially in the extreme conditions of an engine bay. Make sure that your service provider is checking these yearly.