- If heavy snow is forecast, make sure you carry a
spade, some sacking, wellies and a torch with spare batteries in case
you get stuck. If you have to make a long journey, especially at
night, take a flask of hot drink, rugs and blankets and high-energy
food such as chocolate.
- A car that is well maintained is the most
economical on fuel. Get it serviced with us - we service ANY MAKE OF
CAR. Before a long journey and if you use the car for short journeys
every day, carry out the following checks at least once a month.
- Remove the engine dipstick and check the oil
level; wipe the stick with a clean rag, replace it and check again.
The level should fall between the minimum and maximum marks and if
necessary, remove the oil-filler cap and top up.
- Check the engine coolant level in the radiator or
expansion tank attached and top up if necessary, but only when the
engine is cold. Top up the windscreen washer reservoir with antifreeze
mixture in the correct proportions, which will be noted in the
manufacturer’s handbook or call us and we'll give you a FREE
no-obligation 3 point check.
- Use a pressure gauge to check that the air
pressure in all tyres, including the spare, is as recommended in the
handbook but only do this when the tyres are cold in order to get an
accurate reading.
- Use a tyre-tread tool to measure the depth of the
tread on all tyres, as the law requires that the depth all around the
tyre and across its central section should not be less than 1.6mm.
Most modern tyres have wear bars, which stand proud of the bottom of
the tread grooves. If they are flush, the tyre must be changed. Remove
stones and other debris from the tread with a penknife.
- Check that all lights and indicators are working
and clean. Replace any spent bulbs and ensure that the battery
terminals are clean and secure.
- Keep the windscreen, mirrors and windows clean
and keep the windscreen and rear screen washer reservoirs topped up.
In cold, misty or foggy weather check that the windscreen demister
works.
- Additional checks include: replacing worn rubbers
on windscreen wipers, ensuring number plates are clean and firmly
attached, adjust seat belts correctly and check the alternator belt
for wear and ensure that the tension is correct.
- A simple collection of tools and equipment will
help you deal with many emergencies and can be stowed in the boot.
This can include: first aid kit, warning triangle, jack, foot pump,
paper roll, engine oil, water, spare fuses and bulbs and a penknife.
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