Whether you’re navigating the chaotic streets of Karachi, cruising the highways of Lahore, or tackling the rugged roads of Islamabad, regular car maintenance is the key to longevity, safety, and fuel efficiency. With rising fuel prices (currently ~PKR 250/liter for petrol as of October 2025) and spare parts costing a fortune, a little preventive care goes a long way.
Here are practical, Pakistan-specific car maintenance tips every driver should follow — from daily drivers to weekend off-roaders.
1. Check Engine Oil Every 2 Weeks
- Why? Pakistan’s heat, dust, and stop-go traffic burn oil faster.
- How to do it:
- Park on level ground, wait 5 mins after turning off the engine.
- Pull the dipstick, wipe clean, reinsert, pull again.
- Oil should be between “L” and “F” marks and honey-colored (not black or gritty).
- Tip: Use SAE 10W-40 or 5W-30 synthetic oil for most Pakistani cars (Toyota, Honda, Suzuki). Change every 5,000–7,000 km or 6 months.
- Cost: Oil + filter change = PKR 3,500–6,000 at local workshops.
Pro tip: Carry a 1-liter top-up bottle in your boot. Dust storms can cause sudden oil consumption.
2. Inspect Tires Weekly (Pressure + Tread)
- Ideal pressure (check door jamb sticker):
- Suzuki Mehran/WagonR: 30–32 PSI (front), 28–30 PSI (rear)
- Honda City/Civic: 32–35 PSI
- Toyota Fortuner: 33–36 PSI
- Under-inflation = 10–15% less fuel efficiency + faster wear.
- Check tread depth: Insert a PKR 10 coin — if the silver rim is visible, replace tires.
- Rotate tires every 10,000 km to avoid uneven wear from potholes.
Local hack: Visit a CNG pump — they have free air pressure gauges.
3. Clean or Replace Air Filter Every 10,000 km
- Why? Pakistani roads = dust, sand, and smog (especially in winter).
- Signs of a dirty filter: Sluggish acceleration, black smoke, poor mileage.
- DIY in 5 mins:
- Open hood → locate air filter box (usually black plastic near engine).
- Unclip, remove filter.
- Tap gently to remove dust or wash (if paper, replace).
- Cost of new filter: PKR 800–2,500 (genuine Honda/Toyota).
4. Brake Pads & Fluid: Check Every 6 Months
- Listen for: High-pitched squealing when braking = pads worn out.
- Visual check: Pads should be >3mm thick.
- Brake fluid: Should be clear/yellowish, not brown. Replace every 2 years.
- Cost: Front brake pads (both sides) = PKR 3,000–6,000 + labor.
Safety alert: Never ignore brake warning lights or spongy pedals — get checked immediately.
5. Battery Maintenance (Especially in Summer)
- Average battery life in Pakistan: 1.5–2.5 years (due to 45°C+ heat).
- Monthly checks:
- Clean corrosion (white powder) with baking soda + water.
- Check water level (distilled water only — PKR 50/liter).
- Tighten terminals.
- Signs to replace: Slow cranking, dim lights, swollen battery case.
- Recommended: AGM batteries (maintenance-free) for extreme heat.
6. Coolant (Not Just Water!)
- Never use tap water — causes rust and overheating.
- Use 50/50 coolant mix (e.g., Prestone, Zerex, Honda Type 2).
- Check level monthly. Top up only when engine is cold.
- Flush & replace every 2 years (PKR 1,500–3,000).
Myth busted: Boiling water in radiator = cracked engine block. Always carry coolant.
7. Windshield & Wipers: Clean Visibility = Safety
- Clean windshield inside & out with glass cleaner + newspaper (no streaks).
- Replace wiper blades every 12 months (PKR 800–1,500 pair).
- Use washer fluid (not plain water) to avoid clogging.
8. AC Service Before Summer (March–April)
- Regas AC every 1–2 years (PKR 2,500–4,000).
- Clean cabin filter (behind glovebox) — improves airflow and reduces smell.
- Run AC for 10 mins weekly (even in winter) to keep seals lubricated.
9. Fuel System: Use Clean Fuel + Additives
- Avoid low-quality petrol from shady pumps (common in rural areas).
- Use fuel injector cleaner (e.g., Wynn’s, Liqui Moly) every 10,000 km (PKR 800).
- For CNG cars: Get tuning every 5,000 km to avoid backfiring.
10. DIY Emergency Kit (Must-Have in Pakistan)
Keep this in your boot:
- Spare tire + jack + wheel spanner
- Jumper cables
- Basic toolkit (screwdriver, pliers, duct tape)
- Torch + reflective triangle
- 1 liter engine oil + coolant
- Tow rope
Maintenance Schedule Cheat Sheet (Pakistan Edition)
| Interval | Task | Cost (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| Every 2 weeks | Check oil, coolant, tire pressure | Free |
| Every 5,000 km | Oil + filter change | 3,500–6,000 |
| Every 10,000 km | Air filter, tire rotation, fuel additive | 1,000–3,000 |
| Every 20,000 km | Spark plugs, brake pads check | 4,000–8,000 |
| Every 2 years | Coolant flush, brake fluid, battery check | 5,000–10,000 |
Bonus: Save Money with Local Workshops
- Avoid dealerships for routine jobs — local ustaads charge 50% less.
- Best cities for cheap, reliable mechanics:
- Lahore: Bilal Gunj, Badami Bagh
- Karachi: Shershah Auto Market
- Islamabad: I-9 Industrial Area
- Use PakWheels Forums to find trusted mechanics near you.
Final Word: Drive Smart, Save Big
A well-maintained car in Pakistan can easily last 15+ years and save you lacs in repairs. Spend PKR 15,000–25,000 yearly on preventive maintenance — it’s cheaper than a PKR 200,000 engine overhaul.
Your car isn’t just transport — it’s your daily warrior. Treat it right.
🔧 Pro Tip: Download the PakWheels App — log your service history, get reminders, and buy genuine parts with warranty.
Safe driving, and keep the rubber side down! 🚗💨