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NC DPS »   DPS Services »   Safety Tips »   Vehicle Maintenance

Vehicle Maintenance

Mechanic loosening a car tire to replace

Keeping your vehicle in good working condition can prevent dangerous accidents. The following tips are a great checklist to ensure your vehicle is safe to operate year-round.

  • Have routine oil and fluid changes, tire rotation and tune-ups on your vehicle.
  • Test your vehicle's battery. Batteries are much weaker in colder weather.
  • Have your exhaust system inspected and make sure there are no leaks. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer and can accumulate quickly in closed vehicles.
  • Make sure the heater and defrosters are working properly.
  • Make sure your windshield wiper blades are in good condition and fill the washers with antifreeze solvent.
  • Check the radiator, heater core and all hoses that carry anti-freeze solution to see that they are in good condition and free of leaks. The solution should be good to at least 40 degrees below zero.
  • Check your tires regularly for proper pressure and tread wear.
  • Replace wiper blades every six months.
  • Keep your gas tank at least half full at all times to prevent moisture from freezing the lines.
  • Make sure your headlights and taillights are working properly.

Safety Tips

  • Personal Safety
  • Child Abuse Prevention
  • Fraud and Scams
  • Date Rape
  • Slamming
  • Substance Abuse
  • Internet Safety
  • Home Safety
  • Children Home Alone
  • Vehicle Theft
  • Travel Safety
  • Road Hazards
  • Highway Safety
  • Deer on the Highway
  • Vehicle Maintenance
  • Holiday Travel
  • Winter Driving
  • Bus Stops
  • Business Fraud Protection
  • Employee Theft

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NC Department of Public Safety

Physical Address: 
512 North Salisbury Street, Raleigh
 
Mailing Address:
4201 Mail Service Center, 

Raleigh, NC 27699-4201
 

919-733-2126

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NC DPS
https://www.ncdps.gov/dps-services/safety-tips/vehicle-maintenance