Car Maintenance Advice

Keeping your car well maintained is the best way to prevent unexpected problems from arising. Keep your car in top shape with our user-friendly six-point maintenance check.

 
• Check your oil

Check your oil level when the engine is cool. Lift the bonnet and remove the dipstick. Wipe the dipstick on a tissue, replace it and then remove it again. Check the level of oil against the markings on the dipstick. Watch out for very black or cloudy white oil, it usually indicates a problem with your engine.

 
• Top up your water

It's best to check your water when the engine is cool. Top up your radiator or header tank with c old water. Also, check that your windscreen washer fluid is full. Use a good screen wash additive in summer and winter – water alone won't clear oily road grime and freezes easily in winter.

 
• Inspect belts, hoses and wiring

Check under the bonnet for any wear and tear on hoses, belts and wiring. Belts should have about half an inch (1.5cm) of give. Anything more or less is too tight or too loose.

 
• Check your tyres

Check the tyre pressure on all your tyres including the spare. You can do this at any petrol station. The reading will be most accurate when your tyres are cold. Keep an eye out for tyre damage and worn treads.

 
• Test your lights

Get someone to help you test your lights, brake lights and indicators. If there's no one around to help, you can drive up close to a wall and check the reflection your lights make.

 
• Car insurance
 
• It's one thing to have a road ready car but don't forget to make sure your car is covered with the right level of car insurance. For a car insurance quote and more information about the types of car insurance available from Privilege, visit http://www.privilege.com.

Article submitted Friday, July 18, 2008
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