The Auto Writer

It has been said that it is the little things in life that can make a big difference. When it comes to car maintenance, those little things – if neglected – can turn into serious problems, causing you
hundreds of dollars in repairs.

When a car is well maintained it is much more economical to run and provides the safety you and your occupants deserve. Let’s take a look at some reminder tips from the RIAS to keep in mind especially as winter’s worst weather begins to settle in:

• Check the anti-freeze strength and try to change the coolant and anti-freeze every two years.

• Use a good quality anti-freeze, even the best only costs a few pounds. Use a 50-50 mix of anti-freeze and water in the cooling system for winter (check your owner’s manual) to avoid severe engine damage costing hundreds of pounds to repair.

• Lights, heaters and windscreen wipers all put high demands on your car battery – when starting the car, make sure these non-essentials are turned off until the engine is running. And remember, batteries rarely last longer than five years, so check the condition of yours and replace if necessary.

• Check all tires for condition, pressure and tread depth. Don’t be tempted to reduce pressure to increase grip, this is dangerous and affects breaking capacity.

• Make sure you have a maintenance kit ready – including jack and wheel brace. Consider including a warning triangle in the kit plus spare engine oil, water, spare fuses and bulbs. Check the condition of your spare wheel/tire.

• Check all lights and indicators are working and clean.

• Keep the windscreen, mirrors and windows clean – and make sure screen wash reservoirs are kept topped up.

• Replace worn windshield wipers.

If you’re not particularly handy with the car, take your vehicle to an oil change shop and they’ll likely include a simple maintenance check up with your visit. You can elect to have them do the maintenance for you for an extra charge.

Source: RIAS