The importance of knowing how to maintain your car cannot be overstated. Despite this, many motorists neglect this area, which could lead to avoidable car issues and costs. Keep reading to discover the key areas of maintenance and why they are so important.
Regular Servicing
It is essential that you follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. Regular servicing ensures that various maintenance tasks are carried out to keep your car in the best possible condition and that any small issues are handled before they become larger, more expensive problems. Regular servicing will also help your car run efficiently and preserve its value.
Tyre Maintenance
The tyres impact the handling, efficiency, and safety of the vehicle, so it is vital that you know how to look after them (including the spare). This will include checking the pressure and adjusting as needed and checking the tread depth – 1.6mm is the legal minimum, but it is recommended that you change your car tyres once you reach 3mm. Tyre rotation is also smart for preventing uneven wear.
Fluid Checks
There are various fluids that the car relies on to operate safely and efficiently, so you need to get into the habit of checking the fluid levels and topping up as required. The main fluids include:
- Engine coolant
- Brake fluid
- Windscreen washer fluid
- Power steering fluid
You should also change the engine oil according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure that it is properly lubricated and to improve engine performance.
MOT Inspections
Every car over three years old needs an annual MOT to assess its roadworthiness. In addition to ensuring that your vehicle meets legal safety and environmental standards, an MOT can help identify issues with your car as it will go through many checks. Keep in mind that there is currently an MOT backlog, so you should book an MOT online well in advance to ensure that your current certificate will not expire before you get a new one (driving without a valid MOT is illegal). It is also a good idea to conduct maintenance on your vehicle before the MOT to improve its chances of passing the first time.
These are the main areas of maintenance to focus on to keep your car in the best condition. Regular maintenance is important for improving your car’s performance and effeminacy, reducing the chance of a breakdown, and prolonging the life of your vehicle. It will save you a lot of money and hassle down the line, so it should be a top priority for all motorists.
