Be good to your car and it will be good to you
Fluids
Check your car’s fluids once a week. It only takes about 10 minutes. Make sure the engine is cool and have a rag in your hand. Open the bonnet, pull out the oil dipstick, wipe it clean then reinsert and pull it out again to check the level. The full mark is indicated on the dipstick and the oil level should be on full. If not, you will need to add some oil. Also, check the radiator and brake fluid reservoirs. Take note of the levels and then it is easy to recognise if they change. And check your windshield wiper fluid too.
Hoses and belts
Check all hoses and belts for any signs of wear.
Tyres
Check tyre pressures. The correct pressure will be indicated in your car’s handbook or somewhere on the car’s bodywork. Correctly inflated tyres can save fuel as well as reduce tyre wear.
Check your dates
Be familiar with your car’s registration and warrant of fitness (WOF) expiry dates and keep them current.
Know your car
As you drive your car each day, listen for any odd noises. For example, brake pads that are worn and require changing will make a high-pitched squealing noise. Early detection of odd noises will cost you less in the long run.
Keep it clean
Wash your car regularly. Dirt and salt can corrode your car’s paint and body work and leave it vulnerable to rusting.
Oil change
Your car’s oil and filter will need to be changed every 10,000km. Dirty oil looks thick and black on the dipstick. An engine runs badly on dirty oil and a badly running engine will break down much more quickly. You can change the oil yourself, but make sure you use good quality oil.
Use a mechanic you trust
Most importantly, know that you can take your car to a trustworthy garage for regular servicing. One Stop Mechanical Servicing and their team of highly experienced, qualified mechanics can do the quick maintenance jobs through to more comprehensive repairs. One Stop Mechanical Servicing has a team who place great emphasis on building a relationship of trust and communication with their customers.
