Vehicle maintenance tips

Getting your vehicle serviced periodically is important if you want to protect its value and reduce the risk of a breakdown. The cost of the service can actually save you money in the long run because issues can be resolved early, before they become a major problem. You’ll also find that servicing helps to maintain the performance of your car.

As well as paying for vehicle servicing there are also a number of things you can do yourself to look after your car.

– The Fuel Filter

This important filter keeps impurities from getting into injectors and other important parts of the engine. It will need replacing periodically, around every two years or 24,000 miles. In some vehicles it is easy to access but in others it can be hard, especially if you don’t have any experience. This may be one best left to a garage.

– Power Steering Fluid

Healthy, consistent steering is really important. You’ll need to top up the fluid regularly to keep levels up and ensure it is properly lubricated. You can check the level yourself and top up when necessary. Remember to only use the type of fluid that the manufacturer recommends.

– Battery

Batteries typically need changing after 4 or 5 years of use. However, you can extend their life by being proactive with maintenance. Simply keeping terminals clean and ensuring the charging system works will help. When you do replace the battery make sure you a have a suitable replacement and consider upgrading to advanced technology.

– Air Filter

Engines need to regularly take in air for cooling and other things. The filter serves an important purpose in removing contaminants from it. You’ll need to replace it around every 12,000 miles or sooner if required.

6) Trans Fluid and Filter (Automatic Cars)

With automatic and clutchless cars you need to ensure the gearbox has a suitable level of transmission fluid and will be required to change the filter periodically. Every two years or 24,000 miles you should change the filter and replace all of the fluid.

5) Spark Plugs

Modern spark plugs last longer than older ones but you’ll still need to replace them after a couple of years. Some will last as long as 100,000 miles but others will need changing after 30,000 or so. If you notice a drip in mileage replacing them is a common solution.

4) Engine Belts

The engine and timing belts (in some vehicles the second is a chain) are essential and any problems with them can see your car break down quickly. The first belt will need replacing every 36,000 miles or so and the second between 60,000 and 90,000 miles.

3) Coolant

This keeps your radiator working and also helps to prevent corrosion in the system. You’ll need to keep it topped up and should change it after around 24,000 miles to ensure it maintains its potency. Make sure you get the mix of coolant and water right when you do it.

2) Tires

Knowing when to change your tyres is very important. You can use them until they reach the minimum safe tread depth or until they are a certain age but it is always best to get new ones sooner rather than later. Keep an eye on the depth with a professional gauge and do regular checks to make sure they are wearing properly.

1) Brakes

These are perhaps the most important component in the whole vehicle. You should keep a very close eye on them to make sure they function properly. Topping up fluid and checking the condition of pads regularly is wise. Brake fluid should be changed after 24,000 miles and pads should be replaced before they reach minimum safe thickness.

You can do a lot of the maintenance yourself, but vehicle servicing in Sevenoaks will comprehensively resolve any problems and ensure that every aspect of your vehicle is kept in great condition and safe for the road. If you want a first rate service, make us your provider of choice. We provide great value and high quality, professional services.