On a daily basis   

• Be alert for any sign of change. If, for example, the engine seems to be running a little less smoothly, the brakes seem less positive than usual, or the steering feels vaguely odd, don't dismiss it as imagination. Trust your instinct, and investigate the reason, or seek advice.
  
• Keep an eye on the tyres - your only contact with the road. Any cuts, damage or reduction in pressure need urgent attention.
  
• Be aware of the fuel gauge. An empty tank is an all-too-common cause of breakdown.

Weekly

• Check tyre pressures, and if necessary adjust them to the correct level shown in the car handbook. Don't forget the spare.
  
• Check and top up the windscreen washer bottle, and include an additive to tackle grease and squashed flies in summer, or icy conditions in winter.
  
• Even if you haven't time to clean the car, clean the windows and wipe all the lights to keep them at maximum efficiency.
• Check for any blown bulbs.
  
• If your car does not have a sealed-for-life battery, check the level in the cells and top up with distilled water as necessary.
  
• Remove rubbish from inside the car. A tidy environment is safer, it avoids distraction while you're driving.

Monthly

• Check the level of oil in the engine, and ensure it is between the maximum and minimum marks on the dipstick.
  
• Check for sufficient liquid in the cooling system. Most modern cars have plastic coolant reservoirs, where you can see the level. In an older car, when the engine is cold, unscrew the radiator cap to check the coolant level. Top up as necessary, and include antifreeze in the mixture, in winter and summer. It helps protect against overheating, as well as frost damage.
  
• Give the car a good wash and polish to guard against the bodywork aging.
  
• Watch for the first signs of rust forming, and treat it before it gets worse. Look for any signs of water leaks that could trigger corrosion.
  
• Check tyre tread depths and look for signs of uneven wear, showing suspension problems.

Before any long journey

• Walk around the car and look for any signs of potential trouble, especially tyres and lights.
  
• Check tyre pressures, spare included.
  
• Check all fluid levels and top up as necessary.