Do you want to keep your car’s steering wheel and power parts in good condition? Well, it doesn’t take a master mechanic. Just a few easy maintenance habits can keep your ride steady, your turns sharp, and your wallet happy. Here are ten simple ways to upgrade your ride’s performance.

Check the Pressure, Save the Tread

Tires lose about 1-2 PSI per month naturally, so regular checks are important. Underinflated tires push up fuel consumption by up to 10% and wear unevenly. That’s what makes the turns harder. So, always measure tire pressure when cold using a reliable gauge.

Grease Those Joints for Smooth Turns

Dry joints cause annoying squeaks and can mess with your car’s handling. Greasing the steering and suspension prevents friction and helps avoid premature wear. Grease them every 5,000 miles, especially in extreme weather. While mileage varies, periodic lubrication is recommended for all vehicles.

Watch the Power Steering Fluid

Low power steering fluid? That spells trouble. It strains the pump and makes turning feel like arm day at the gym. Check the level monthly and refill with manufacturer-recommended fluid. As any good mechanic would say, “Keep it full, keep it smooth!”

Balance for a Better Drive

Unbalanced wheels cause those annoying vibrations and bumpy trips. Get your car’s wheels balanced every 6,000-8,000 miles for better handling and a more comfortable ride. Avoiding such balance issues will prolong the life of those tires and steering components.

Mind the Shocks and Struts

Shocks aren’t just for comfort; they make driving safer, too. Old or worn-out shocks make your ride bouncy and unstable. When this happens, control gets sketchy, especially when cornering or braking. So, replace the shocks every 50,000 miles or when rough paths start feeling too extreme.

Tighten Your Belts Before You Roll

Belts power everything, whether it’s the alternator or the steering pump. If a belt is loose or frayed, it can snap anytime, leaving you stranded and damaging the power system. Check for cracks or damage every six months and replace when necessary.

Embrace Alignment for Control

Misalignment not only wears tires but also makes it difficult to take turns. Getting an alignment once a year or after hitting potholes keeps your wheels in sync, improves steering, and enhances handling. It also boosts fuel efficiency, saving you money while extending tire life.

Treat the Transmission Right

Change the transmission fluid every 30,000-60,000 miles or per manufacturer recommendations because it ensures smooth shifts and protects power system parts. If there’s low or dirty fluid, it can lead to grinding gears and jerky performance. Healthy transmission fluid means a healthy drive.

Rotate to Keep Rolling

A little twist in tire placement will keep you rolling. Proper tire rotation spreads wear evenly across all tires, making your car handle predictably on turns. Every 5,000 miles, rotate front to back, left to right, and dodge that lopsided feeling on turns.

Listen for Worn Bearings

Hearing a grinding noise while turning? That’s likely a worn wheel bearing. Bearings are parts that keep the wheels spinning smoothly, which is essential for handling and safety. Check bearings regularly, especially if that noise appears. Ignore them for too long, and steering will suffer.