Most people think of car maintenance as something optional – it’s nice to do if you have the time and money, but beyond changing the oil, lots of people don’t know what that entails. If you think you know (or you’d like to know), then take this car maintenance quiz to find out where you stand on caring for your ride.

1. An oil and filter change is one of the basics of car maintenance. How often should you be thinking about changing your oil?

• When the “Check Oil” light goes on – 2
• About every 3,000-5,000 miles – 3
• I just keep pouring oil into the top until the dipstick reads the right amount – 1

 

2. Windshield wipers see a lot of action in most parts of the country. The best time to swap them out for new ones is:

• Fall – after the baking hot summer, and before the precipitation of the winter – 3
• When I remember to do it – 2
• When the wiper is scratching against my windshield because the blade is gone – 1

 

3. The timing belt is crucial, and damaging it could leave you stranded on the side of the road. The right time to look into replacing it is:

• As soon as and often as your mechanic recommends it – 2
• Around 60K miles, roughly, but check your owner’s manual for specifics – 3
• Wait, that thing wears out? – 1

 

4. Air filters are an inexpensive and simple replacement. How frequently should those be replaced?

• We have pretty good air here, I’m not too concerned – 1
• Every year or around 15K miles – 3
• Every time they ask me when I get my oil changed – 2

 

5. Tire rotation is one of those maintenance tasks that people try and get out of, but do you have any idea how often it should be done?

• I just buy new tires – 1
• That depends on tire pressure and wear – 3
• Once a month to keep those suckers worn perfectly on each side – 2

 

6. True or false: using a higher octane gas than suggested by the manufacturer keeps your engine in top condition

• False – you’re just paying more for gas – 3
• True – high octane is always better – 2
• I’m not paying extra for gas, 87 is it – 1

 

7. The mileage that gets you to the maintenance point called “The Big One” is:

• 60,000 miles – 3
• 120,000 miles – 1
• 30,000 miles – 2

 

8. Spark plugs are little guys, but they’re important. How often should you call in the new troops?

1. When I get my oil changed -2
2. When my mechanic points out that I need new ones – 1
3. Good spark plugs can last up to 60K, so I shouldn’t need new ones for awhile  - 3

 

9. A condition that can affect how often you need to do maintenance is:

1. Extreme heat or cold – 3
2. How heavy you are – 1
3. The brand of tires that you buy  – 2

 

10. The need to replace brake pads can often be identified by:

1. Slamming on the breaks to see if they work – 2
2. Brakes make a squeaky or squealing noise when they need new brake pads – 3
3. When your car has trouble slowing and stopping, that’s when you should replace the pads – 1

 

 

Mostly 1’s – Neglect = Decline

 

Sure, you probably have a million things on your to-do list, but this car maintenance quiz has outed you as a neglectful owner when it comes to keeping your car in great shape. At the very least, try and get the basics down – things like wiper blades and tire rotation, because those not only affect the performance of your car, but your personal safety, as well.  So, grab that little book in your glove compartment, and bone up, my friend!

 

Mostly 2’s – A Good Effort

 

The car maintenance quiz is meant to highlight the areas where you have some gaps in your car maintenance knowledge, and although you give it the old college try, you definitely have some gaps. Try and educate yourself on what your car needs, instead of just relying on warning lights or a mechanic’s suggestions. You’ll feel more empowered to make the right choices for the life of your car, and you’ll save a few bucks by avoiding unnecessary repairs. Win-win.

 

Mostly 3’s – Gold Starz

 

Well, looks like SOMEONE is a responsible car owner. As far as the car maintenance quiz goes, you passed with flying colors. Between reading your owner’s manual and doing your research online, you’ve managed to do pretty well educating yourself on your car’s needs. Now, how about tackling your next challenge, like the New York Times crossword puzzle or something.

 

[photo by gfoster67]