As a female, it sometimes surprises people when I pop open the bonnet (hood to my American readers) and get my head underneath to have a look. I am well versed in keeping a healthy car, I know where the dipstick is and how to change the oil, fill up the windscreen washer fluid and I have a strange obsession about engine coolant – don’t ask! However, it amazes me just how little some people know about getting their car serviced or even keeping it healthy especially when carrying precious cargo such as their loved ones and family.
Here are our 5 top tips for saving money and lives when it comes to looking after your car. Although I do recommend an annual service around 6 months after your annual MOT.
Want more healthy car tips:
- 5 Tips To Make Your Tyres Last Longer
- How To Know When To Service Your Car
- Summer Driving Car Check List
Check the oil
The best way to check the oil is to remove the dipstick, wipe with kitchen roll or a cloth put it back in the hole and remove. Check to see the level is absolutely not below the minimum, but not above the maximum for a healthy car. Try and keep it as topped up as possible at all times using the highest grade oil that is suitable for both your car and budget. It’s important to keep an eye on oil levels as failure to do so can mean your car’s engine seizes which is a very expensive issue!
Flush the cooling system annually
Not many people I’ve spoken to know how important this is. By flushing the coolant system and replacing the coolant with 50/50 coolant and distilled water this prevents deposits and corrosion in the cooling system. If you’re not confident in how to do this yourself to keep a healthy car an annual service at your car dealership will include this (and a valet – that’s clearly my favourite part!). It’s also worth noting that in the winter months you can add antifreeze to your coolant to stop it from freezing
Bleed brake fluid
Here’s some science for you, brake fluid is hygroscopic meaning it is adept at attracting moisture. With moisture comes corrosion and this causes components to fail. It is recommended that you replace fluid and bleed the system annually, you’ll find that brake fluid is inexpensive whereas callipers, hoses and sensors are all extremely costly. Again if you take your car for a service your dealership will also carry out this service.
Always top up washer fluid
This is not something that will damage your car if it’s not regularly topped up, however it will obstruct your viewing, especially in the winter months if you neglect topping up your washer fluid. It’s important to keep your windscreen clear as this will allow you to see the road clearly. You can buy ready mixed washer fluid for as little as £1, although it is recommended during the colder months to opt for a fluid with anti-freeze in too to stop your fluid freezing.
Put 20p in your tyres for a healthy car
I was once advised that if you place a twenty pence piece in the tread of your tyres and you can see the rim of the coin showing your tyres require changed. Although expensive these are a legal requirement and if worn can cost you points on your license and a fine. A fully fit tyre helps your car to grip the road with the tread, which is essential for braking and steering.
These are just our top five tips, however, it is absolutely imperative that you look after your car’s health as well as your own. Cars can be fatal if faulty and although it may seem like resource burning both financially and time-wise it really could save your life. If you’re not confident in servicing your car yourself, ask a friend to help you or do it for you. This is alongside a service from your car dealership, besides the stamp in your logbook, it is extremely important for making sure that a professional mechanic checks your car to make sure it’s all working correctly. If you want reliable car servicing in Glenrothes or nearby areas, Fife Autocentre can help.
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