Car maintenance can be a confusing and tricky business, but it is vital to stay on top of your car’s upkeep to prevent major mechanical issues, whether that’s by doing jobs at home to improve performance or taking your car to the garage for more complex issues.
We recently carried out some research to find out how Brits were feeling about keeping up with car maintenance costs. Here’s what we found:
With car costs causing such a concern for UK drivers, we’ve explored the areas that Brits are spending the most money on and have pulled together some top tips on how to maintain these areas to help you keep costs down.
Engine Oil & Oil Filters
Most manufacturers recommend that you check your engine oil every month or so, especially before making a long journey. However, if you’re driving a car over 10 years old, it could be worth checking it even more regularly. When it comes to oil filters, it’s best to replace in line with your car’s manufacturers guidance as advice will vary from vehicle to vehicle.
Checking your car oil level can help you to work out if your car is getting through oil at a faster rate than it should be or losing oil to a leak. That means with a simple check, you could prevent considerable, expensive damage which can be caused by low oil levels.
Brakes
The brake pads are one of the most important parts of a car as without them, you won’t be able to come to a safe stop.
If you notice any kind of deterioration in your braking, check the brake discs for any signs of corrosion or pitting, as this can reduce the area and the amount of friction available.
With your brake pads it is important to check on the thickness of the pad itself. Again, over time the heat caused by the friction when you apply your brakes will cause the pads to wear, and when they are worn down to the thickness of the steel backing plate it is time to change your brake pads.
Battery
Your car’s battery is one of its most important components, and its performance can impact the vehicle’s engine and all electrical elements of your car. Having the correct car battery is vital to having a happy car (and wallet).
To ensure you’re up to date on the correct car battery maintenance, read our quick-step guide to help you stay on top of all things battery.
Brake Fluid
Changing your brake fluid is a simple, effective, and affordable way to ensure your brakes are working at an optimum level. This is something that can easily be done at home with the right know-how which is why we’ve pulled together a handy guide on how to change your brake fluid.
Coolant
Maintaining your cooling liquid system helps to keep your engine at a safe temperature, so ignoring signs of failure here can have detrimental effects on the engine.
Engine damage can be very expensive to put right. Ensuring the correct coolant is used and regularly checked is important.
Spark Plugs
The spark plug is key to igniting the fuel and air mixture in the engine and without them, your motor wouldn’t be capable of starting, let alone running. Because of this, switching out the old with the new is vital. Luckily, it’s not a major job and can be done in a few easy steps. Our guide to replacing your spark plugs covers off all the key steps so you can do it at home.
Windscreen Wipers
Over time your wiper blades will start to produce visible or audible signs of wear and tear. If you don’t know what you’re looking for specifically, then this rough guide will help you:
- When they are shaking and making noise on the windscreen when in use
- Visible signs of damage or wear when you run your finger down the blade
- When they leave streaks on your windscreen
If any of these signs occur it’s time to replace your wipers to ensure you have full visibility the next time you drive. Whilst attending to your wipers, it’s also a good time to make sure your screen wash is topped up too as this will help clean your windows effectively.
Air Filter
Air filters are designed to keep dust, soot and debris from reaching the engine. Generally speaking, you should change your vehicle’s air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. However, if you’re unsure whether your filter needs replacing, see our guide to air filters and common signs of deterioration or check the manufacturer’s guide.
Tyre Pressure
Replacing all the tyres on your car can be costly, not to mention frustrating especially if it results in a failed MOT. Data from GOV.UK shows that up to 10% of MOT failures are caused by problems related to tyres – including general condition, tyre tread and tyre pressure.
There are several precautions you can take to get as many
miles out of your tyres as possible, whilst ensuring you stay safe on the road:
At home:
- Keep an eye on your tyre pressure
- Drive carefully and avoid colliding with the kerb wherever possible, and take extra care when parking, driving over speedbumps or on badly-surfaced roads
With professional help:
- Have your tyres rotated regularly to allow them to wear out evenly
- Have your wheel alignment checked every 2 to 3 years, especially if you drive regularly.
For more tyre maintenance tips read our advice on when to replace your tyres.
If you still have some car-related questions you can find further car advice by exploring our blog.