Basic Vehicle Care Tips
What is the basic care my vehicle needs?
Basic vehicle care tips – Regular vehicle care keeps your vehicle running smoothly and helps prevent breakdowns. Simple checks like monitoring oil levels, tyre pressure, brake fluid, and coolant can make a big difference. Keep your lights clean and working, and make sure your windscreen wipers and washer fluid are in good condition. At Motor Bridge, we recommend setting a routine for basic maintenance and addressing small issues early. A well-maintained vehicle is safer, more reliable, and often cheaper to run in the long term.
Motor Bridge
Basic Vehicle Care Every Driver Should Know
Looking after your car doesn’t need to be complicated.
With just a few regular checks, you can keep your vehicle in top condition, avoid costly repairs, and stay safer on the road.
Did You Know?
The rubber in your tyres starts to degrade naturally after about five years—even if you haven’t driven much. That’s why age matters just as much as mileage when it comes to tyre safety.
Step-by-Step: Essential Vehicle Checks
✅ Check Your Engine Oil
Open the bonnet and pull out the dipstick. Wipe it clean, dip it back in, and check the level. If it’s low, top it up with the correct oil. If it looks dirty or thick, it’s time for an oil change.
✅ Monitor Tyre Pressure and Tread
Use a pressure gauge to check all tyres—including the spare. Refer to your vehicle’s guide for the correct pressure. Use a 20p coin to check the tread: if the outer band is visible, it’s too low.
✅ Keep Washer Fluid Topped Up
Find the cap with a windshield icon under the bonnet and fill it with screen wash. Avoid using plain water—especially in colder months, as it can freeze and damage the system.
✅ Check Coolant Levels
When the engine is cool, look at the coolant reservoir. The level should sit between ‘min’ and ‘max’. Top up only with the correct coolant mix if needed, and never open a hot radiator cap.
✅ Test All Lights
Turn on your headlights, brake lights, indicators, and fog lights. Walk around your vehicle or ask someone to help. Replace any faulty bulbs as soon as possible—they’re usually cheap and easy to swap.
✅ Listen While You Brake
Notice any grinding, squealing, or unusual vibrations. If braking feels soft or unresponsive, get your brakes inspected immediately. Don’t wait—it’s a key safety issue.
✅ Keep Your Car Clean
Wash the outside of your car regularly to remove grime, salt, and debris that can cause corrosion. Hoover the interior and wipe down surfaces to prevent long-term wear and tear.
✅ Learn Your Dashboard Lights
Warning lights are there for a reason. Red or flashing means stop the car as soon as it’s safe. Amber means check it soon. Get to know what each symbol means using your vehicle’s manual.
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One Last Thing…
Spending just 10 minutes a week on these checks can extend the life of your car, improve fuel efficiency, save you from expensive surprises down the road and most importantly save your life.
Take a look at The Highway Code legal guidance for vehicle care at GOV.UK
Disclaimer:
While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the information we provide, it is intended for general guidance only. We make every effort to keep our content current and correct, but we cannot guarantee that all information is free from errors or omissions. Therefore, we accept no responsibility for any loss, damage, or inconvenience caused as a result of reliance on material found on this platform. Always consult official sources or professional advice where appropriate.
