It’s easy to remember the big ones—oil changes, tire rotations, and brake pads. However, there are several equally important vehicle maintenance tasks that many drivers forget, and skipping them can quietly lead to poor performance, higher repair costs, or even safety issues. Just because something doesn’t flash a warning light doesn’t mean it’s fine.

Here are six overlooked maintenance items that should be part of your car care routine to keep your vehicle running longer and more reliably.

1. Replacing the Cabin Air Filter

If you’ve ever noticed stale air, weak airflow from your vents, or an odd smell in the cabin, your cabin air filter might be the reason. This filter traps dust, pollen, and other pollutants before they enter your car’s ventilation system. Over time, it gets clogged—especially in hot or humid climates like Florida’s.

A dirty cabin air filter doesn’t just affect air quality; it also strains your HVAC system and reduces its efficiency. Replacing it every 12,000 to 15,000 miles (or once a year) can improve airflow and comfort, especially during allergy season or long road trips.

2. Flushing Brake Fluid

Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which reduces its boiling point and makes your brakes less responsive—particularly during heavy braking or long downhill drives. Moisture in the fluid can also cause internal corrosion in the brake system.

Many manufacturers recommend replacing brake fluid every 2–3 years, even if your brakes feel fine. It’s one of those services that doesn’t feel urgent—until it suddenly is. Fresh fluid ensures your brakes respond quickly and consistently when you need them most.

3. Checking and Replacing Worn Wiper Blades

Wiper blades are one of the most neglected safety components on a car. You only notice how bad they are when it’s pouring rain—and by then, it’s too late. Heat and sun exposure in places like Florida can dry out the rubber quickly, causing the blades to streak, chatter, or leave gaps on the windshield.

You should inspect your wipers every few months and replace them at least once a year. Clear visibility during a sudden storm can be the difference between a safe drive and a dangerous one.

4. Servicing the Differential and Transfer Case Fluids

If you drive a rear-wheel, four-wheel, or all-wheel drive vehicle, your differential and transfer case have their own fluids that need maintenance. These components handle distributing power between wheels—and they take a beating, especially during towing or off-road use.

Unlike engine oil, these fluids don’t need frequent changes, but they do break down over time. Forgetting to service them can lead to expensive repairs that sneak up without warning. Having them checked every 30,000 to 60,000 miles is a good rule of thumb.

5. Cleaning or Replacing the Mass Air Flow Sensor

The Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor measures how much air is entering your engine and helps the car determine how much fuel to inject. Over time, it can become dirty or coated with oil from the air intake system, leading to poor fuel economy, sluggish acceleration, or even a check engine light.

While not a common maintenance task, cleaning the MAF sensor every 30,000 to 50,000 miles can help keep your engine breathing and performing properly. It’s a simple service that can restore power and efficiency.

6. Inspecting Battery Terminals for Corrosion

Batteries don’t just fail because they’re old. Corrosion on the terminals can interrupt the flow of electricity and leave you with a car that won’t start—even if the battery itself is still good. White or greenish buildup around the terminals is a sign that corrosion has set in.

Regularly inspecting and cleaning your battery terminals can help maintain a strong connection and extend the life of the battery. It’s especially important in coastal or humid areas where corrosion happens faster.

Armstrong Auto Care – Full-Service Maintenance in Hollywood, FL

If you’re behind on your maintenance—or unsure what your car might be missing—bring it to Armstrong Auto Care in Hollywood, FL. Our team checks the stuff most drivers forget and helps you stay ahead of repairs with smart, timely service.