Less mechanically minded drivers can freeze up at the prospect of popping the bonnet, but having even a basic grasp of what lies beneath can save you shelling out for simple fixes.
Here’s our guide to some easy DIY jobs and pre-MoT checks.
• Check all fluids once a month, or before long journeys, and top up as required. Always make sure the car is parked on a level surface. Use the dipstick to check the oil level, and monitor coolant, windscreen-washer fluid and brake-fluid levels by checking them against the markers on the side of their respective reservoirs. Hydraulic power-steering systems and automatic gearboxes may also need periodic fluid checks. Dashboard warning lights often alert you when levels drop too low, but you shouldn’t wait until this happens.
• Check the condition and pressure of your tyres, from cold, at least once a month. Keep them inflated to the pressure recommended in the owner’s handbook to keep the car safe and save on fuel bills. Don’t forget to check the spare. Use a tread-depth gauge to make sure all tyres exceed the legal minimum depth of 1.6mm across 75% of the width of the tyre. It’s best to replace tyres when they reach 2mm.
To avoid wasting money on a failed MoT test, check the following items beforehand. Even if you’re not able to fix problems yourself, identifying them early can limit repair bills.
• Check the windscreen for chips and cracks.
• Check the horn, wipers and washers work properly.
• Make sure door mirrors aren’t broken.
• Check all the seatbelt buckles work.
• Ask a friend to help you check all exterior lights work correctly. Replace any blown bulbs and watch for broken lenses.
• Make sure the handbrake will hold the car on a hill.
Here’s our guide to some easy DIY jobs and pre-MoT checks.
• Check all fluids once a month, or before long journeys, and top up as required. Always make sure the car is parked on a level surface. Use the dipstick to check the oil level, and monitor coolant, windscreen-washer fluid and brake-fluid levels by checking them against the markers on the side of their respective reservoirs. Hydraulic power-steering systems and automatic gearboxes may also need periodic fluid checks. Dashboard warning lights often alert you when levels drop too low, but you shouldn’t wait until this happens.
• Check the condition and pressure of your tyres, from cold, at least once a month. Keep them inflated to the pressure recommended in the owner’s handbook to keep the car safe and save on fuel bills. Don’t forget to check the spare. Use a tread-depth gauge to make sure all tyres exceed the legal minimum depth of 1.6mm across 75% of the width of the tyre. It’s best to replace tyres when they reach 2mm.
To avoid wasting money on a failed MoT test, check the following items beforehand. Even if you’re not able to fix problems yourself, identifying them early can limit repair bills.
• Check the windscreen for chips and cracks.
• Check the horn, wipers and washers work properly.
• Make sure door mirrors aren’t broken.
• Check all the seatbelt buckles work.
• Ask a friend to help you check all exterior lights work correctly. Replace any blown bulbs and watch for broken lenses.
• Make sure the handbrake will hold the car on a hill.
2 comments:
Thanks a lot for this. I've only recently started driving and will be taking my car for it's first service soon so this is really, really helpful.
Changing your car’s air filter is a simple yet essential part of regular maintenance—thanks for breaking it down so clearly! For those who love hands-on experiences like this, the Bus Simulator Indonesia APK offers a fun way to simulate driving and managing vehicles across diverse landscapes. A great way to appreciate the mechanics while relaxing!
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