Car Maintenance

Three good habits to get into are:

1. Check and change the oil regularly
2. Ensure tyre pressure is correct
3. Book car in for regular servicing

It is also important to be aware of :

• Lights – are they all working? If there is one that is not then replace the bulb, but if both lights are out replace the fuse.
• Tyres – there is a legal minimum tread depth (outer edge of 10p piece). Poor steering, cornering and braking could indicate bald or under-inflated tyres.
• Wipers – ensure they clear the windscreen for sufficient visibility, and keep topped up with wiper fluid.
• Brakes – ensure there is no leaked brake fluid in the footwells that could indicate a leak. To check brakes, pump the brake pedal until it is rigid and hold your foot on it. If it gives way there may be a leak. Also, if the brake pedal feels loose, spongy and unresponsive, there may be air in the system.
• Cooling System – there needs to be sufficient water and antifreeze in the system or it could cause extensive damage to the engine. Keep an eye on the level and top up with pre-prepared mix of one third anti-freeze and two thirds water to the maximum level.
• Shock Absorbers – check these by pushing down hard on each corner of the car and letting go- the car should go back into position smoothly and not bounce.
• Rust – you can check for this by looking at the bottoms of the doors and around the wings. However, rust in main structural areas in checked during an MOT.
• Exhaust – Any rough or loud sounds may indicate a hole. This will need repaired as it will cause the vehicle to be inefficient. During MOT’s, fuel emissions will be checked to ensure the correct levels of gases.
• Oil – You should aim to check the oil level once every two weeks. Do this by pulling out the dipstick (check manual if you are unsure where it is), wiping it clean and putting it back in fully. Remove it again and look to see where the oil level comes to. If it is under the bottom (minimum) mark, the oil needs topped up. Make sure you use the correct oil type for your car (check manual) and, using the oil filler cap, pour small amounts in continually checking the level with a clean dipstick, until it reaches maximum.
• Oil Change – This is very important and should be done at every service or every 10 000 miles.

For Added Efficiency from Your Car

• Drive at a steady speed of 50 mph.
• Avoid lots of short trips – they don’t allow the engine to heat up properly and use more fuel.
• Change gear quickly – don’t rev the engine.
• Choose the type of tyre carefully – some are more fuel efficient than others
• Make sure you always have sufficient tread on your tyres.
• Use a multi-grade oil.
• Keep all vehicle fluid levels topped up.
• Always use an authorised repairer/ garage.* Interestingly, by properly maintaining your car you can reduce you contribution to ozone pollution while at the same time saving yourself up to 20% on the annual cost of fuel *