If you don't take proper care of your vehicle, it could cost you a lot of money in the long run.

Your vehicle is probably one of the most valuable possessions you have, but it is a necessity for everyday transportation. Therefore, maintaining your vehicle is a priority for optimizing your finances.

The following are six basic car care mistakes it's important to avoid to maximize vehicle lifespan:

Neglecting to check fluid levels on occasion

There are numerous fluids that you need to check regularly on your vehicle to ensure that you minimize the chances of mechanical malfunctions.

Fluids you should be checking should include oil, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. It's a good idea to learn to check these fluid levels yourself to minimize the expense of vehicle maintenance and stay in tune with your vehicle's needs. 

Never reading the owner's manual that came along with your vehicle

Your owner's manual provides you with a lot of important information on maintenance issues.

You should be paying particular attention to the maintenance schedule provided in your owner's manual. This way, you won't overlook routine tasks that ensure the prolonged functionality of all your vehicle's mechanical components. 

Driving your vehicle around when the check engine light is on

If your check engine light is on, there is some mechanical issue that you need to look into.

Ignoring your check engine light could cause any existing mechanical problem to worsen over time. Therefore, it's important to be aware of the reason why your check engine light is on and attend to any repairs promptly. 

Never washing your vehicle

Regularly washing your vehicle will prevent rust development. Rust development on any part of your vehicle's exterior can increase your risk of developing mechanical malfunctions.

Rust can spread to vital vehicle components like your transmission and engine and cause mechanical failure in your vehicle if you're not careful. 

Being unaware of how much of a charge there is on your battery

Electric power is important for the functioning of any vehicle. If your vehicle's battery is weak, numerous mechanical systems in your vehicle may not function optimally. 

Battery life can be particularly compromised during hotter periods of the year or for motorists who drive in geographic regions with hotter climates. It's a good idea to have your battery tested every few years to make sure that it is still holding a good charge and doesn't need to be replaced. 

Failing to occasionally inspect your tires

The condition of your tires can have a huge impact on the condition of the rest of your vehicle.

Maintaining proper tire air pressure will ensure that your vehicle can handle well on the roads. This can reduce the chances that you will have to deal with mechanical issues caused by accident damage and keep you safer out on the roads. 

Talk to a company like Import Auto Maintenance to learn more.