Taking your car to the mechanic shop for routine servicing is vital for keeping the vehicle in good working shape at all times. But you also have a role to play in ensuring your car operates properly in-between visits to the mechanic shop. 

Performing your own preventative maintenance checks can go a long way in ensuring early detection of problems that may be too costly to repair if left unattended for a long time. It is also vital for preventing car accidents that may cause serious injuries and costly damage to vehicles. 

That said, here's a look at a few essential things you can do to ensure safe and efficient car operation.

1. Check vital fluid levels

The engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid and other fluids in your car all play an important part in ensuring optimal driving safety and performance. Keeping them at the right level will help keep your car running properly at all times. Learning how to check car fluid levels is a vital skill every car owner should possess.

2. Check the battery for signs of corrosion

Your car battery is what supplies the power required to start the vehicle and power up other electrical components of the vehicle. If it is covered with corrosion, the battery terminals may not transmit power to other parts of the vehicle. This can lead to a car breakdown. As part of your car maintenance routine, be sure to check your battery for signs of corrosion. If you see a substantial amount of the buildup, you can rub it off with a wire brush.

3. Check your windscreen wipers

Windscreen wipers are one of those car components many drivers only check when they need to use them. Yet, they can never tell what weather is in store for them during the day. You wouldn't want to get caught out driving in stormy weather without functioning windscreen wipers. So, always check if your wipers are working before hitting the road.

4. Check your car's lighting system

Cars come with a series of lights to help drivers communicate with other drivers and road users while on the road. These include headlights, brake lights, fog lights and more. Like windscreen wipers, these lights should be checked on a daily basis. Travelling in a car with faulty or non-operational lights can put you, your passengers and other road users in harm's way.

Remember, the above checks are only meant to complement the routine car servicing performed by a qualified mechanic. They shouldn't replace mechanic-provided maintenance in any way.