6 important vehicle maintenance tips
We have all been there, it’s time to give your vehicle a look over but you don’t know where to start. Well, worry no more, we’ve got you covered! Today we are going to discuss six important vehicle maintenance tips:
1. Check your radiator and cooling system
To do a check of the coolant within your radiator all you have to do is look at the level in the plastic overflow bottle. Some vehicles may be different and you should always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual. The coolant level with the overflow bottle should be between high and medium, if it is not this then it’s time to top up!
To do a more thorough check you should turn off your vehicle and then wait until it cools, then remove the cap on the radiator and fill until the desired level is reached. Always consult a professional, such as the team at Auto Parts Central, or your owner’s manual before putting coolant in your vehicle to ensure you are using the right coolant.
2. Monitor your engine oil levels
This is one of the most important vehicle maintenance tips! It is very easy to check your engine oil to see if you need a top-up, you just need to follow the instructions below:
#1 – Ensure your car is parked on flat ground
#2 – Turn on the engine and allow it to run for a small period of time
#3 – Turn off the engine open the bonnet, remove the oil cap and then remove the dipstick wipe it clean with a cloth rag and reinsert fully into the engine.
#4 – Remove and check the dipstick to ensure the levels are correct which are typically listed within your vehicle’s manual, there should always be oil on the dipstick, if not contact a mechanic immediately
3. Ensure your tread depth and tyre pressures are correct
To check the tread depth on your tyre you should refer to the owner’s manual for your vehicle, once you have obtained the correct depth that you need for your vehicle then cross-reference the number against the tread depth on your tyre which can be read via indicators on the tyre itself. Always ensure your tyre tread depth is within the legal and optimal limit, otherwise, you are putting road users and yourself at risk!
It is best practice to always carry a pressure gauge in your vehicle so you can evaluate your tyre pressure at any time, To find out what pressure your tyres should be you can typically check the inside of your car door or alternatively the owner’s manual.
4. Monitor your transmission and power steering fluids
There is no overall guide to checking your transmission and power steering fluid as it nearly always differs between makes and models, you are best to consult the owner’s manual where you will find a detailed guide on checking the above.
5. Always replace your wipers and fill up your washer bottle
If your window wipers are split or are not performing optimally then it is probably time to replace them, visibility is key when driving so it is essential to replace these regularly.
To check and fill up your washer bottle you just need to pop the bonnet of your vehicle and then remove the plastic water bottle cap and then fill your bottle with the correct mix of washer bottle additive and water, this can be found in your manual or alternatively, have a chat with one of our staff members.
6. Always check your lights are fully working
Checking your lights and indicators is a quick and easy task that can save your life. All you have to do is use a wall nearby to view the reflections and transmission of light against the wall – this only applies if you don’t have a second person with you to take a look for you from the outside of the vehicle to ensure all lights and indicators are firing correctly. When it is time to replace your lights always ensure you are using the correct type of bulb as specified in your owner’s manual!
