Let’s face it — most Nigerian drivers only check their cars when something starts making a weird noise. By then, it’s too late.

But if you want your car to last in this Naija weather, handle these Lagos potholes, and still move smoothly during fuel scarcity, you need more than just “wash and go.”

Here are 7 car maintenance habits every Nigerian driver should adopt — especially if you don’t want your mechanic calling you “customer wey dey always come.”

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1. Check Your Engine Oil Regularly

Your engine oil is the lifeblood of your car. In Nigeria’s hot climate and heavy traffic, engine oil burns faster than you think.

Tip: Check your oil at least every 2 weeks. Don’t just rely on what the mechanic said 3 months ago.

A dry or dirty engine will cost you more than the oil change ever would.

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2. Don’t Ignore the Dashboard Lights

We’ve all seen it — someone driving around with the “Check Engine” light on like it’s part of the car’s design.

Those warning lights are not decorations. They are your car’s way of crying for help. Ignoring them could mean a small ₦5,000 fix turning into a ₦150,000 engine overhaul.

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3. Always Monitor Your Tyre Pressure

Underinflated tyres don’t just affect fuel efficiency — they’re dangerous.

And overinflated tyres? Even worse on our bad roads.

Tip: Use a portable tyre gauge or check every time you refuel. Don’t wait until you’re stranded on Third Mainland Bridge with a burst tyre.

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4. Service on Time — Not When the Car Starts Complaining

Nigerians love to wait until the car starts “talking” before going for servicing. But prevention is cheaper than repair.

Even if your car still starts every morning, servicing every 3 to 4 months can help detect issues early and keep your ride smooth.

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5. Watch Out for Strange Sounds

Clunking, squealing, rattling — these aren’t background music. They’re warnings.

If your car starts sounding like a danfo bus when you brake or turn, it’s time to check your brake pads, suspension, or steering system.

Don’t adjust your playlist — adjust your mechanic visit.

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6. Clean Your Air Filters

Nigerian roads = dust. Dust = clogged air filters.

Clogged filters = poor fuel economy and bad engine performance.

Tip: Clean or replace your air filter every 10,000 to 15,000 km — or more often if you drive in dusty areas like the outskirts of Abuja or bad Lagos roads.

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7. Know Your Mechanic — Not Just the “Oga for Fuel Station”

Every driver needs a reliable, honest mechanic. Not the one who tells you your “engine has knock” when all it needed was oil.

Ask friends for referrals, read reviews, and stick with the ones who explain before they change parts.

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Bonus: Keep Records

Keep track of when you serviced your car, changed your tyres, replaced brake pads, etc. You’ll thank yourself later — especially if you ever plan to resell the car.

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Final Word

Your car is not just a machine — it’s your companion through Lagos traffic, unexpected fuel hikes, and weekend road trips.

Treat it well, and it’ll serve you better.

Adopt these 7 habits, and you’ll spend less time at the mechanic’s and more time enjoying the ride.