While driver’s education may teach a person how to drive, they don’t always teach everything a person needs to know about their vehicle. Part of this is because things differ from brand to brand and model to model.

Here below are ten different things that all drivers need to know how to do, in order to keep their vehicle running longer. These things can also help you avoid being stranded on the side of the road!

• Know when your oil should be changed. While the rule of thumb used to be every three months or around 5,000 miles, that’s no longer true for all vehicles. Read your manual to know when your vehicle’s oil change is due.

• Know warning light is the vehicle’s check engine light and when it comes on, is it potentially serious. While it may not always mean you’re going to destroy your vehicle if you continue to drive it, in many cases, it does indicate a problem that shouldn’t be ignored.

• Know how to replace your windshield wiper blades. You should replace them every six months or so. Most parts stores will install them for free if you purchase then from them.

• Know how to check all the fluids in your vehicle and what type of replacement fluids you need to purchase. This includes oil, power steering fluid, brake fluid, antifreeze, and windshield wiper fluid.

• Know how to check your tire pressure and when you need to add or release air. Most gas stations have an air station where you can adjust your air pressure. Invest in a good tire pressure gauge, as improperly inflated tires affect fuel economy and premature tire wear.

• Remember to check your headlights and taillights regularly and replace them as needed. Headlights do get dimmer over time. Plus, unless someone tells you about a burned-out bulb you will never know.

• Don’t forget to put a roadside emergency kit in your vehicle’s trunk so you have everything you need if your vehicle breaks down and you can’t immediately find help.

• Know everything about your vehicle by reading the owner’s manual. All brands and models are a little different, spending a little time reading the owner’s manual will really help get to know your vehicle. Doing so will maximize the enjoyment you will get out of vehicle ownership.

• Remember to check your air filter every six months and change it as recommended in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. This will help increase your fuel efficiency and performance. In most cases changing the air filter is the easiest DIY service you can do.

• Find a good mechanic. Don’t always go with the cheapest or the shop closest to you. Ask your friends and relatives for suggestions or you can read online reviews. You don’t want to pick a mechanic at random—your vehicle is an expensive investment, and you want to be sure it’s in the right hands.

If you know and follow these ten things, you’ll be able to keep your vehicle running for years.

Staying on top of these, will also help you get better gas mileage, minimize breakdowns, and save a little bit of money too.

For more tips like these, read our blog.