Just got the keys to your first car? Exciting times! It’s a major milestone but also a big responsibility. Maintaining your car has many benefits: it keeps you safer on the road, reduces the risk of breakdowns, improves fuel efficiency, and cuts long-term repair costs. Here are some of the maintenance essentials to keep in mind.
Check Tyre Pressure and Tread Regularly
As the only point of contact between your car and the road, tyres should always be on your maintenance checklist.
Start with the most basic task – checking tyre pressure. About once a month should be enough unless you notice something unusual. You should be able to find the recommended tyre pressure in your vehicle’s handbook or on the inside of the driver’s door frame.
Tyres that are under or overinflated can lead to poor handling, uneven tyre wear and increased fuel consumption. While you’re there, inspect your tyres for any signs of excess wear or cracking.
Your tyre tread (the grooves through the rubber) should also meet the legal limit. In the UK, the minimum tread depth you can drive with is 1.6mm. Measure this with a tread depth gauge or by checking wear indicators on the tyre itself.
If the tread is below this, replace the tyre(s) ASAP to avoid fines or accidents. For help, head to your local tyre specialists in Braintree.
Keep Fluid Levels Topped Up
Your car relies on various fluids to function properly. Checking these regularly can help prevent serious issues down the road. The most important fluids to keep an eye on include:
- Engine oil: Check the oil level with the dipstick every few weeks and top up if necessary. Dirty or low oil can cause engine damage over time. Some newer cars have automatic sensors, so you may not have to check manually.
- Coolant: This prevents your engine from overheating. Ensure the coolant is topped up to the right level, especially before long journeys.
- Brake fluid: Low levels of this can lead to poor braking performance. If you notice it’s running low, get it checked because there may be a leak. Otherwise, you may just need to add more under the bonnet.
- Windscreen washer fluid: Always keep this topped up, particularly in the winter months, to ensure clear visibility.
Monitor Your Battery Health
A dead battery is one of the most common causes of breakdowns, especially in cold weather. You can help prevent this in a few ways.
Check your battery terminals (the components that connect your car to the battery) for corrosion and ensure they are clean and tightly connected. If your car is slow to start or you notice dimming lights, this could be a sign that your battery is nearing the end.
Avoid using things that require electricity while your car isn’t running. Radios and lights can drain the battery and could mean you’ll need a jumpstart to get you going again.
Car batteries with standard use should last around three to five years, so be mindful of how old yours is. If you’re seeing warning signs, replace it before a dead battery catches you off guard.