Suzanne Keane has some simple tips to keep your car running in tip-top condition with some regular car checks!
Tyres
It’s important to regularly check your tyre pressures – when they are cold – as proper inflation levels will ensure you have maximum contact with the road along with improving your fuel consumption.
It’s also a good idea to keep an eye on the condition of your tyres – with winter weather closing in make sure you’ve got at least 2mm tread and there are no signs of uneven wear or cracks in the sidewalls – and don’t forget to check your spare wheel!
Fluids
Make sure to keep your washer bottle topped up and mix some good quality screenwash in with water to make sure it doesn’t freeze up! Check your oil (on a level surface) before long journeys and if you’re just doing short trips make sure to have a look at the level at least once a month.
Keep an eye on the level of your coolant and brake fluid – if it’s been a while since they were changed it might be a good idea to have the systems flushed and replaced with new fluids.
Headlights
Light focusing isn’t just for your NCT so if you feel your headlights aren’t quite pointing the right way get them focused professionally – you’ll be amazed by the difference. New bulbs will also greatly improve the light output and even just keeping your lenses clean can increase your vision.
Check all the other bulbs are working too to ensure other motorists can see you!
Windscreen
Make sure to keep your windscreen clean and if traffic scum begins to appear you can use washing up liquid to clean the windscreen – try to keep it off of the paintwork though! Also check for any cracks or chips – if you have windscreen cover with your insurance you may be able to have them replaced for free.
Suzanne Keane
17th November 2021
