Car Servicing – things to keep a regular check on

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With a baby on the way, I am determined to learn to drive before this one arrives. With that said, I’ve been doing my research when it comes to car ownership, making sure I know everything that I will need to budget for along the way, so I know fully what I am getting myself into. While there are the obvious bills to pay that come with car ownership – tax, insurance, fuel costs, there are also servicing costs that can add up if you are not expecting them, or don’t keep on top of them.

From what I’ve been advised, the best way to go is to have regular checks of some car services, catching problems before they get out of hand and expensive. Regular servicing seems to be the way forward, rather than waiting for the yearly MOT and service. There are a few quick and simple things that you can {and should} check on a regular basis to keep your car in tip top condition. If the worst happens, and your car is past its best, it is worth finding out its salvage value.

1| Screen Wash & Windscreen Wipers

By law, you have to have working windscreen wipers – a windscreen can get so dirty, it is essential you can keep it clean so you can see to drive safely. Keep a regular eye on the windscreen wash levels so you don’t find yourself without, check the wipers themselves to ensure they are not leaving streaks or smears that could obstruct your vision. It’s also a good idea to check the windscreen itself to make sure there are no chips in the glass.

2| Tyre depth and pressure

Making sure your tyre tread is within the safe limits is vital, as treads provide the traction necessary to grip the road in inclement weather, such as rain, snow, ice or mud. Without them, cars would be virtually uncontrollable on wet, icy or slick roads. Checking the tread once a month, and investing in a tire tread gauge can make sure that your tyres are safe all winter long. Checking tyre pressure is as important as checking tread depth, for if your tyres are the wrong pressure, then you will have compromised the handling, grip, and braking. As well as the significant safety issues, over or under-inflated tyres will cost you money through excessive fuel consumption and increased tyre wear.

3| Brakes

Brakes are a crucial part of your car – and literally can be the difference between life and death. While there are obvious indicators they need checking – the brake light coming on, or your car taking longer than usual to stop, but it’s also worth keeping an ear open for a harsh grinding sound, feeling like the car is pulling to one side, or a vibrating brake pedal are all signs you should get someone to check over your brakes. One of the most reliable brakes services in Stirling is from Fife Autocentre. To assure a safer drive please visit your nearest branch today!

4|  Engine Oil Level

Keeping an eye on your engine oil levels, and topped up, will ensure that your car runs smoothly. It’s an easy thing to check – do it when your engine is cool, open your bonnet and look for the dipstick. Pull it out of its tube and use a cloth to wipe off any excess oil, then push it back in and pull it out again examining it to see where the oil has stuck to it. The dipstick will have markings on it to help you determine if your oil levels are low.