Hints & Tips

Brakes

Listen out for squeaking or grinding noises when you apply the brakes. This may mean your brakes need professional attention.

Check that your brake pedal is functioning correctly and not reaching all the way to the floor. Also ensure that your floor mat is not likely to cause any obstruction.

Winter is a strange time of year; we can have long spells of dry weather, followed by rain and storms. The weather means we need to be more aware of the driving conditions than at other times of the year. Read more.

Fluid levels

Familiarize yourself with areas requiring regular fluid top-ups such as the radiator water, engine oil, and brake fluid, automotive transmission fluid, and clutch fluid, antifreeze and windscreen water. Ask if you are not sure- we are happy to help.

Do you know where you washer bottle is and what liquid you need to add? Click here to see how you can learn how to locate and add fluid to your vehicle to keep this essential part of your car working effectively and giving you clear vision.

Lights

Check both your front and back lights are working correctly (parking in front of a reflective window is a handy way to see if your rear lights are working). Also check your indicators and reversing lights.

Always keep a couple of replacement bulbs in your glove box just in case. If you don't know which ones you need, please call and ask us. We will tell you what to buy from your local car spares shop, or we can supply them for you.

Battery

The battery terminals should be clean and tightly secured. Check the electrolyte level and top-up with distilled water if needed.

A dead battery is a guaranteed way to ruin your day! Most batteries last around five years so bear in mind that if yours is older, it may need replacing soon.

Tyres

Check your tyre pressure – including the spare. Most air stations have a tyre pressure guide on the side of the machine (and it’s free!).

Give each tyre a thorough visual check for signs of wear. The tread depth should be no less than that of a match-head. Uneven wear may indicate poor wheel alignment. If you need a second opinion pop in and we will have a look.

Air conditioning services

Many people think of air-conditioning as a summer thing, but your vehicles air-conditioning works for you all year round. On cold winter days, your air-conditioning is the thing that demists your window before you set off in the morning, as well as keeping you warm as you drive. Read more.

Wiper blades

If your wiper blades are not effective, your safety is at risk. Wipers are an often neglected, but essential feature of your vehicle. If you cannot see clearly, how can you drive safely? Read more.

For more hints, tips and advice, or to make an appointment please call 07 839 5839 or click here to email us .