This content has been provided by Advanced Radiators
MANY people avoid car maintenance as they do not want to commit the time or money to the task, or feel that they can rely on services and MOTs when it comes to looking after their vehicles. However, this article lays out why giving your motor some TLC is really worthwhile.
It improves performance
Maintaining your car helps ensure that it is running optimally, so that you and your passengers can experience more enjoyable drives. Improved performance could also help to improve the resale value of your vehicle.
It is better for the environment
There are a number of maintenance tasks that can help to improve fuel economy, hence lessening the environmental impact of every mile you drive. Inefficiencies caused by limited upkeep can result in increased emissions of harmful CO2 and other pollutants.
One of the easiest and most effective ways to boost your miles-per-gallon figure is to keep your tyres at the optimal pressure. It is recommended that you measure the PSI of each tyre at least once per week, and inflate or deflate them to the level advised in your car handbook.
Replacing your air filter when necessary and regularly changing engine oil are also steps that help you reduce fuel consumption. This For Dummies guide explains how to inspect your air filter and determine when a change is required.
It saves you money
Car maintenance can save you money by improving fuel economy, helping you to reduce petrol forecourt bills. However, there are many other ways that giving your vehicle a little TLC can benefit your bank balance.
Crucially, maintenance helps you to avoid costly repairs. Looking after your car significantly reduces the risk of wear and tear progressing into more serious damage, so you’re less likely to face huge expenses at the garage – and the inconvenience of being without your motor while it’s fixed.
Essential maintenance
You should inspect your car tyres on a regular basis to ensure the tread meets recommendations, which you can read about on this handy AA guide; to check that there are no signs of damage; and to verify that they are inflated to the optimal pressure.
In order to avoid being pulled over, you must frequently check that your car bulbs are in working order, and that you have washer fluid in the reservoir. The government recommends checking all of your fluid levels on a weekly basis.
Neglecting to keep oil topped up can cause engine damage, while a car with low brake fluid may fail to come to a stop. There are also transmission fluid, power steering fluid and coolant levels to keep on top of. As long as you follow manufacturer guidelines, you can perform these checks yourself to save money.
Taking your car for a service at recommended intervals is still important, despite your maintenance. Professionals will identify when you need more complex work, such as a radiator replacement. You can save money on these jobs by purchasing the parts, such as a Fiat radiator, from a reputable car radiator supplier like Advanced Radiators. You then just have to pay for the labour.
