Car Maintenance Hacks That Will Change the Way You Drive

Keeping your car in top shape doesn’t always require a professional mechanic. Here are seven maintenance hacks that can save you time and money while keeping your car running smoothly.

1. Use Toothpaste on Your Headlights

Cloudy headlights? Apply some toothpaste and rub it in with a cloth; the mild abrasive will clear up the fogging without costly kits.

2. Clean Your Engine with Dish Soap and Water

A clean engine can run cooler and more efficiently. Dish soap and water can effectively remove grease and grime without the need for expensive degreasers.

3. Nail Polish for Minor Paint Chips

A small chip in your paint can be temporarily fixed with clear nail polish. It will seal the chip and prevent rust until you can get a proper touch-up.

4. Use Cooking Spray on Door Seals

To prevent doors from freezing shut in winter, spray cooking spray on the rubber seals. This will keep moisture out and ensure your doors open smoothly.

5. Inflate Tires with Nitrogen

Using nitrogen instead of air in your tires can maintain tire pressure longer and prevent corrosion, as nitrogen doesn’t expand with temperature as much as air.

6. Remove Dents with a Plunger

A common plunger can sometimes pop small- to medium-sized dents from your car’s bodywork. Just splash some water on both the plunger and the dent and give it a few pulls.

7. Use Pool Noodles in Your Garage

Protect your car doors from hitting garage walls by cutting a pool noodle in half lengthwise and attaching it to the walls where doors might impact.

Driving Smart

These simple tricks can help extend the life of your car and avoid trips to the mechanic, allowing you to spend more on what really matters—enjoying the drive.

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For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.