Last Updated on March 21, 2024
Introduction
So, you’ve just got your new car! It can feel like opening a door to a whole new world of freedom. But with this newfound freedom comes great responsibility – and it’s one that goes beyond just keeping your hands at 10 and 2 on the steering wheel! We’re talking about the crucial, yet often overlooked, world of vehicle maintenance.
Keeping up with vehicle care isn’t just about avoiding breakdowns (though that is a nice perk), it’s about ensuring safety, reliability and potentially saving some money! A well-maintained vehicle lasts longer, performs better, and can even have less impact on our planet!
Vehicle Maintenance – The Basics
First and foremost, your vehicle manual is going to become your best friend in your quest to keep your car in top shape. The manual, while not the most thrilling read, outlines everything from required oil type, correct tyre pressures and even the schedule for routine services. By understanding your vehicle manual, you are laying a solid foundation to your vehicles well-being.
Taking care of your car doesn’t need to be complicated, there are a few small tasks you can complete that will have a big impact, including:
– Oil Level – Keeping the lifeblood of your engine at the right level is crucial to ensure it runs smoothly. A quick oil check once a month or before any long trips could save you a lot of headaches.
– Tire Pressure – Properly inflated tires are an essential part of safe handling and fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly as correctly inflated tires wear more evenly, extending their life and saving you money in the long run.
– Lights – Regularly check headlights, brake lights and indicators to ensure they are working. Not only are your lights crucial for safety, but they can also be a legal requirement. Ask a friend to help you check brake and reverse lights, or park near a reflective surface to see them yourself.
Whilst these checks seem basic, they can be your first line of defence against unforeseen breakdowns and problems.
Servicing Your Car
Regular basic checks can be undertaken by almost anyone, however, scheduled services* tend to require a professional mechanic. Services are designed to thoroughly inspect and maintain your vehicle, ensuring everything from the engine to the exhaust is in top condition.
Services can include an oil change, filter replacement, brake inspection and more. Adhering to the recommended service schedule in your vehicle handbook can help prevent major issues down the road and ensure your car is reliable for years to come.
It may well be tempting to skip a vehicle service to save money in the short-term. However, regular services can save significant amounts in the long run by catching potential issues before they become expensive repairs.
*This is an affiliate link where Collingwood may receive payment if a service is booked.
Keeping a Clear View: Windows and Windscreen Maintenance
When it comes to vehicle maintenance, it’s not just what is under the bonnet that matters. The clarity of windows, condition of the windscreen, effectiveness of wiper blades and even the cleanliness of your car play a role in your driving experience.
Clear visibility is key to safe driving, and that starts with keeping your windows and windscreen clear. Performing regular cleans of the inside and outside of your windows can help improve visibility, especially under the glare of sunlight or oncoming headlights. When cleaning, try using a good quality glass cleaner and microfiber cloth to avoid streaks that might impair your vision.
Regularly check your windscreen for any chips or cracks. Small chips can quickly turn into large cracks if they’re not addressed promptly, potentially leading to costly replacements.
Wiper Blades: Your Bad Weather Besties
Wiper blades can be an overlooked element of car maintenance, until you’re caught in a downpour. Check your wiper blades every few months and look for signs of wear and damage. Tell-tale signs often include streaking, skipping or squeaking noises. Replacing wiper blades is both simple and cost-effective. This simple to use tool from Halfords can help you select the right size wiper blades and will allow you to book a fitting.
A Clean Car is a Happy Car: The Importance of Washing
Washing your car is not purely for aesthetics, it is also an important maintenance task. Dirt, road salt or grit and bird droppings can all damage vehicle paint, and lead to rust if left uncleaned. Regularly washing your car can help to preserve the appearance and in turn, the resale value. Pay special attention to the undercarriage of your car during winter months, especially if you live by the coast as salt build up can lead to rust and corrosion.
If you are washing your car by hand, use products specifically designed for vehicle paint. Some household detergents can strip away waxes and damage the finish.
Top tip: Try applying a coat of wax after washing to protect the paint and keep that new car look!
Conclusion
By adopting a proactive approach to vehicle maintenance, you’re just not just ensuring safer travels, you’re also preserving the vehicle’s aesthetic appeal and resale value.
These seemingly trivial acts of care can have profound effects on the performance of your car.
Remember, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice when necessary. Whether it’s a question about which are the correct products to use, or a more complex issue, a professional can provide peace of mind and reassurance.
