1. Checking the Oil at Every Fill-Up
In the ’60s, it was routine to pop the hood and check the dipstick whenever you stopped for gas. Cars weren’t as reliable at holding oil as modern engines, so staying on top of it mattered. A quart of oil in the trunk was as common as a spare tire.
This simple ritual kept engines running smoothly and avoided costly breakdowns. It taught drivers to be proactive about maintenance instead of waiting for warning lights. Even today, regular oil checks are smart practice.
2. Keeping Tires Properly Inflated
Back then, service stations offered free air pumps, and drivers used them often. Checking tire pressure before long trips was almost a family tradition. It wasn’t just about safety—it also improved gas mileage.
The advice is still spot on. Properly inflated tires reduce wear and improve handling. It was one of those little habits that paid off in a big way.
3. Waxing Cars to Protect the Paint
A fresh coat of wax wasn’t just about shine—it protected the car’s paint from sun and weather. In the ’60s, dads spent Saturday afternoons buffing their sedans until they gleamed. Kids often joined in with rags in hand.
The wax created a barrier against rust and fading. Today’s products may be more advanced, but the principle is the same. Regular waxing really did wonders for a car’s longevity.
4. Flushing the Radiator Each Season
Drivers were told to flush out old coolant before summer or winter. This prevented overheating in hot months and freezing in cold ones. It was a simple job that kept radiators in top shape.
The habit saved countless engines from expensive damage. Modern coolants last longer, but seasonal checks are still wise. That old rule of thumb was based on real experience.
5. Rotating Tires Regularly
Even in the ’60s, mechanics stressed the importance of rotating tires. Moving them around ensured even wear and a smoother ride. Many families marked it on calendars right alongside oil changes.
It stretched the life of the tires and improved handling. Today, tire rotation is still considered essential maintenance. The ’60s tip holds up perfectly.
6. Cleaning Battery Terminals with Baking Soda
When corrosion appeared on battery posts, a paste of baking soda and water was the go-to fix. A toothbrush or rag scrubbed away the white buildup. It was cheap, easy, and effective.
This trick improved connections and extended battery life. Car owners in the ’60s trusted it, and modern mechanics still recommend the same solution. Sometimes the simplest ideas last forever.
7. Using Transmission Fluid Checks to Catch Problems Early
Manual checks of transmission fluid were a standard part of ’60s car care. Drivers watched for color and smell changes that hinted at trouble. It was an early warning system long before dashboard alerts.
The practice saved transmissions from total failure by catching issues early. Even with today’s sealed systems, mechanics still advise periodic checks. That old hands-on habit worked wonders.
8. Changing Spark Plugs at Home
Spark plugs wore out faster in older cars, so replacing them was common. With a simple wrench, drivers could swap them out in the driveway. It was a point of pride to keep the engine firing smoothly.
The job improved fuel efficiency and performance instantly. While plugs last longer now, replacing them remains crucial. ’60s car owners knew the value of fresh sparks.
9. Greasing the Chassis
Lubricating the undercarriage was a routine part of car care in the ’60s. Mechanics and DIY drivers alike greased joints and fittings to keep everything moving freely. Skipping it meant squeaks and faster wear.
This habit extended the life of suspensions and steering parts. Modern cars often seal these components, but back then, greasing was essential. The simple act really did wonders for longevity.
10. Keeping a Tool Kit in the Trunk
In the ’60s, roadside assistance wasn’t just a phone call away. Drivers carried wrenches, pliers, and a jack in the trunk for emergencies. It was considered part of being a responsible motorist.
That kit turned many breakdowns into quick fixes instead of disasters. Even today, keeping tools handy can be a lifesaver. The old advice about preparedness never went out of style.
11. Washing Off Road Salt in Winter
Drivers in snowy regions learned to wash cars frequently in winter. Road salt, left unchecked, ate away at fenders and undercarriages. Buckets of soapy water or trips to the car wash kept corrosion at bay.
It may have seemed cosmetic, but it preserved the car’s structure. Today, the same advice applies with modern de-icing chemicals. The tip remains one of the smartest seasonal habits.
12. Listening to the Engine
Before cars had sophisticated sensors, drivers relied on their ears. A rattle, ping, or knock was an early sign of trouble. Attentive listening often prevented small issues from becoming major repairs.
The habit taught drivers to be in tune with their cars. Even with today’s warning lights, listening closely is still invaluable. That bit of ’60s wisdom continues to work wonders.