Your car is probably one of your biggest investments and so, it’s a no-brainer you need to take good care of it. Proper maintenance not only ensures your vehicle runs efficiently but also enhances your safety on the road, reducing the likelihood of breakdowns and accidents.
Even if your car is brand new and you don’t drive long distances, regular maintenance remains crucial. Cars are complex machines that require tender loving care and consistent usage to stay in optimal condition. While certain tasks are best handled by professionals, there are several simple tasks you can and should perform at home. To help you look after your car, we’ve compiled our top maintenance tips that you can follow with ease.
Keep it Clean
Keeping your car spotlessly clean not only feels good but also serves practical purposes.
Legally, you’re required to maintain clean number plates, lights, door mirrors, and windows. Dirty number plates are harder to read, while dirty lights and mirrors become less effective. Dirty windows can also obstruct your view, creating potential safety hazards.
It is equally important to keep the interior clean and tidy. Dirt and grime around the knobs and buttons can impede their functionality. In addition, litter inside the vehicle may obstruct crucial components such as the gear stick, handbrake, and pedals. Having litter trapped under the brake pedal is especially hazardous and can lead to accidents.
When buying a car, consider adding paint and fabric protection. This is a one-off treatment that helps protect both the interior upholstery and exterior paint job. This will keep your vehicle looking good for an extended period. Also, Apex springs are perfect for car enthusiasts looking for better road handling, a lower centre of gravity and a good-looking car.
Top Up the Fluids
Vehicles rely on various fluids like oil, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and coolant in order to function optimally. Fortunately, it is easy to check the levels of these fluids on your own.
In older vehicles, you can use a dipstick located in the engine bay to check the oil level. However, most modern cars come equipped with a computer that monitors the fluid levels and displays it on the dashboard. To know whether your car uses a dipstick or the computer system, refer to the handbook that comes with your vehicle.
If your car has a dipstick, check the oil when the engine is cold. First, remove the dipstick and clean it with a wipe. Then, re-insert it and pull it out again. Look at the gauge near the bottom and if the fluid level is close to or below the minimum mark, you need to top up the oil. Refer to your car’s handbook to know which type of oil is suitable for your engine.
For coolant, power steering fluid, and brake fluid levels, you can find their reservoirs in the engine bay. If these fluid levels are near or below the minimum mark on the reservoir, you need to top them up. Simply remove the cap and pour in the fresh fluid. Ensure you check and refill on a regular basis to keep your car running smoothly.
Take Care of Your Windscreen
To ascertain clear vision when driving, it’s important to have a clear and undamaged windscreen. Ensure you keep the windscreen washer fluid topped up and clean the wiper blades on a regular basis.
Also, you’ll want to check the condition of the wiper blades. You can easily do this by lifting them off the windscreen and running your finger along the blades. If they feel jagged or damaged, it’s time to replace it. Wiper blades can easily be found at any car parts shop and fitting them is relatively simple. Wiper blades in good condition are essential for safety, especially when driving during harsh weather conditions.