Basic Car Checks |

Many general checks can be carried out by the driver/owner but there may be safety and driving implications. For guidance, a skilled technician should be referred to for help in accordance to the manufacturer’s service schedule and the Owner’s manual or whenever you are unsure about what to do.

Maintenance you may need help with:

• Engine Oil
• Engine coolant level
• Radiator
• Brakes
• Air filter
• Battery – if this becomes flat you will need jump leads. To start your car off somebody else’s by attaching the positive terminals of each car together and the negative terminals of each car together then starting the engine.
• Exhaust
• Belts
• Shock absorbers
• Steering fluid -Transmission, brakes, clutch and power

Maintenance to consider in winter:

• Engine anti-freeze
• Special battery care
• Ignition and starting

Maintenance to consider in summer:

• Cooling system
• Suspension

Simple maintenance you can do:

Windscreen washers and wiper blades – As it is now a legal requirement to have washers filled up, fill the reservoir up to the brim with windscreen washer fluid when it is only ¼ full. Look out for wear, cracks and damage. Wiper blades should usually be replaced once a year and earlier if smearing occurs.

Lights: Check all lights are operating correctly. It is advisable to use the help of a friend to inspect the exterior of the vehicle whilst you are operating the controls. See lights diagram