The Tata Nexon has quickly become one of the most popular subcompact SUVs in India, known for its stylish design, robust performance, and advanced safety features. Whether you're a proud owner of a Tata Nexon or planning to buy one, keeping your car in peak condition is crucial for ensuring its longevity and performance. Regular maintenance not only enhances your driving experience but also protects your investment in the long run. In this article, we’ll walk you through 10 car maintenance tips specifically tailored for your Tata Nexon.
1. Regular Engine Oil Checks and Changes
The engine is the heart of your car, and keeping it well-lubricated is key to its health. Engine oil plays a critical role in lubricating engine components, reducing friction, and preventing overheating. For the Tata Nexon, it's recommended to check the engine oil level at least once a month.
Steps to Check Engine Oil:
Position your vehicle on a flat area and allow the engine to cool down.
Open the bonnet and locate the engine oil dipstick.
Pull the dipstick out, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and pull it out again to check the oil level.
If the oil level is below the recommended mark, top it up with the manufacturer-recommended oil.
When to Change Engine Oil: Tata recommends changing the engine oil every 10,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. However, if you frequently drive in heavy traffic or dusty conditions, consider changing it more frequently.
2. Keep the Tyres in Check
Tyres are the only point of contact between your car and the road, making their maintenance vital for safety and performance. Proper tyre care ensures better handling, fuel efficiency, and longer tyre life.
Tyre Pressure: It is advisable to inspect the tyre pressure at a minimum of once per month and prior to embarking on extended journeys. Under-inflated tyres can lead to poor fuel efficiency and uneven wear, while over-inflated tyres can affect handling and ride comfort.
Refer to the owner’s manual or the sticker inside the driver’s door frame for the recommended tyre pressure.
Wheel Alignment and Balancing: Improperly aligned wheels may result in irregular tire wear and difficulties in handling.Have your wheel alignment checked every 10,000 km or if you notice your car pulling to one side.
3. Regular Brake Inspections
Your Tata Nexon’s braking system is crucial for your safety, so regular checks are a must. Worn-out brake pads or low brake fluid levels can compromise braking performance.
Signs Your Brakes Need Attention:
The presence of squeaking or grinding sounds when engaging the brakes.
A spongy or soft brake pedal.
Longer stopping distances.
Brake Fluid Check: Brake fluid should be checked every 10,000 km. Verify that the fluid level is maintained within the minimum and maximum indicators on the reservoir. Low brake fluid can indicate worn brake pads or a leak in the system.
4. Battery Maintenance
The battery is essential for starting your Tata Nexon and powering electrical systems. Regular maintenance ensures that your battery stays in good working condition.
Battery Health Check: Examine the battery terminals for any signs of corrosion and perform cleaning as needed. Corrosion can hinder the flow of electricity and affect your car’s performance. Ensure that the battery is securely mounted to avoid vibrations that can lead to internal damage.
When to Replace the Battery: The average lifespan of a car battery ranges from three to five years. If your battery is older or shows signs of weakening (like slow engine cranking), have it tested and consider replacing it.
5. Coolant and Radiator Maintenance
The coolant system helps keep your engine at the right temperature, preventing overheating. Maintaining the correct coolant level is essential for the health of your Tata Nexon’s engine.
Coolant Level Check: Check the coolant level every month and before long trips. Ensure the coolant is between the minimum and maximum marks on the reservoir.
If you notice a drop in coolant level, there might be a leak in the system. Have it inspected by a professional.
Radiator Maintenance: Keep the radiator clean and free of debris to ensure efficient cooling. A blocked radiator can cause overheating and damage the engine.
Coolant Replacement: It’s recommended to replace the coolant every 2 years or 30,000 km, whichever comes first. Always use the manufacturer-recommended coolant.
6. Air Filter Replacement
The air filter serves to block dust, dirt, and various contaminants from infiltrating the engine, thereby guaranteeing optimal performance. A clogged air filter can reduce fuel efficiency and engine power.
When to Replace the Air Filter: The air filter should be checked every 10,000 km and replaced every 20,000 km. However, if you drive in dusty or polluted environments, consider replacing it more frequently.
DIY Air Filter Check: You can easily check the air filter yourself by locating the air filter housing under the bonnet. If the filter appears dirty or clogged, it’s time for a replacement.
7. Keep the Car’s Exterior and Interior Clean
Regular cleaning not only keeps your Tata Nexon looking good but also helps preserve its paint and interior materials.
Exterior Care: Wash your car regularly to remove dirt, grime, and bird droppings, which can damage the paint. Use a good-quality car shampoo and a soft cloth or sponge. Apply a coat of wax every few months to protect the paint and give your car a glossy finish.
Interior Care: Vacuum the interior regularly to remove dust and dirt. It is essential to focus particularly on the floor mats, seating, and dashboard. Use appropriate cleaners for different materials, such as leather or fabric, to keep the interior looking new.
8. Regular Service Check-Ups
Tata Motors recommends regular service check-ups to keep your Nexon in top condition. Following the service schedule helps identify and address potential issues before they become major problems.
Service Schedule: Follow the maintenance schedule specified in your owner's manual. Regular servicing includes oil changes, filter replacements, and a comprehensive inspection of all major systems.
If your car is still under warranty, regular servicing at an authorized Tata service center is crucial to maintain warranty coverage.
What to Expect During a Service: During a service, technicians will check and replace fluids, inspect brakes, tyres, and suspension, and address any other issues. They may also perform software updates to keep your car’s systems running smoothly.
9. Monitor the Electronics and Lights
Modern cars like the Tata Nexon come with a variety of electronic systems that require regular checks to ensure they are functioning correctly.
Check the Lights: Regularly check all lights, including headlights, brake lights, indicators, and fog lights, to ensure they are working properly. Replace any burnt-out bulbs immediately.
Monitor Dashboard Alerts: Be vigilant regarding any warning indicators displayed on the dashboard. These lights can indicate issues with the engine, brakes, battery, or other critical systems. Don’t ignore these alerts – address them promptly to avoid bigger problems.
10. Keep an Eye on Fuel Efficiency
Monitoring your fuel efficiency can help you identify potential issues with your Tata Nexon. A sudden drop in fuel efficiency may indicate a problem with the engine, tyres, or fuel system.
Tips to Improve Fuel Efficiency: Maintain proper tyre pressure.
Refrain from engaging in aggressive driving behaviors, including sudden acceleration and abrupt braking.
Remove unnecessary weight from the car and avoid idling for long periods.
Conclusion
Proper maintenance is key to enjoying a safe and reliable driving experience with your Tata Nexon. By following these 10 car maintenance tips, you can ensure your car stays in excellent condition, providing you with years of trouble-free service. Regular checks, timely servicing, and attention to detail will not only extend the life of your vehicle but also enhance its resale value. It is important to note that a car that is well-maintained tends to perform better and is more reliable.
We hope that you've enjoyed reading our article on top 10 car maintenance tips for your TATA Nexon and hope for your safety and long time with your car. Thank you!
If you are planning to buy new car, do check our article on Which car to buy in 2024.