Car accidents are a frequent and unfortunate issue on UK roads, and the latest statistics show that in 2023 alone, 1,624 people died on the road. There are many reasons why car accidents happen, including distracted driving, driving under the influence, speeding, and more. Victims can claim compensation after a road traffic accident if another driver was at fault, not just for psychical injuries but also for psychological wounds as well. However, if the car crash is the driver’s fault, you’re no longer eligible to claim compensation from another party. And, of course, you should never let a car accident happen because of you. This is why, besides driving safely and responsibly, you should ensure that your automobile is in proper condition, as it will save you money, time, and stress in the long run. Below you will find 5 essential car maintenance tips, so read on!
Change oil frequently
It’s well known that changing your vehicle’s oil frequently will improve the engine’s performance. According to mechanics, you should change your oil every 10,000 kilometers. It’s important not to disregard this aspect, as clean oil will ensure that all engine components are lubricated effectively, and the engine runs smoothly. On the contrary, not changing the oil will lead to the accumulation of contaminants and grime in the engine, ultimately causing a decrease in the car’s performance. Furthermore, old oil can transform into a gel-like sludge, and continued use under that condition can cause the evaporation of the oil, leading to an increased risk of excessive damage to the components of the engine.
Check fluids under the hood
Oil isn’t the only important aspect to keep in mind when it comes to your car’s maintenance. Just as important are other engine fluids, such as power steering, coolants, brake, and transmission fluids. You should check all of them on a regular basis, as they play a significant role in ensuring your car performs at an optimal level. Windscreen wiper fluid is also important, and you need to keep it clean for safe driving. While using water is an obvious choice, there are also some specialist products that you can find at the local car service centre to help you do the job.
Keep the tires in good condition
Ensuring your tires are in good condition is also imperative, especially if you’re driving in extreme weather conditions. Poorly maintained tires can lead to road traffic accidents, such as spinouts, which happen due to improper turning and spinouts. So, make sure to check the tire pressure, as driving below the right tire pressure can increase fuel consumption, and the tire tread can quickly become worn down. Check the tire tread as well, and if you spot any signs that it is wearing thin, make sure to plan a replacement as soon as you can. This is important because the tire tread can be very dangerous as it lowers grip, thus increasing the risk of a car accident. Also, if you notice any signs of damage, it’s best to have the tires replaced immediately.
Perform regular brake checks
Clean the battery
Think of your vehicle’s battery as its beating heart. If you ignore it, the car will experience issues, and you won’t be able to enjoy your road adventures. Corrosion can build quickly on car batteries that see excessive heat, leading to starting issues, along with poor performance of the engine. The good news is that removing battery corrosion isn’t complicated at all – and it is also inexpensive. Firstly, you need to put on gloves to protect your hands and disconnect the negative battery cable to begin with. This is marked with the abbreviation NEG or a negative sign. Then, remove the positive cable, which is the red one. Keep in mind that you may need to utilize a wrench or pliers to get the wires loose. Make sure to check them for signs of peeling insulation or excess wear, and if they are frayed or damaged, they will need to be replaced. The next step is to apply water, a paste of baking soda, or use a battery cleaning spray to remove the corrosion. Suppose there’s lots of it, a wire brush may be necessary so you can scrub it off the battery’s terminals. Once you’ve finished scrubbing, use water to rinse it away, and then dry the battery with a microfiber cloth. Once the battery is dry, carefully reconnect the cables without over tightening them. Suppose you’ve replaced the cables, at this point, you will have to connect the new ones.
The bottom line
Car maintenance is incredibly important to ensure that all the components of your vehicle work properly and that you can avoid situations where you are involved in a road traffic accident or stranded on the road. Consider sticking to the maintenance schedule in the owner’s manuals, and if you aren’t certain, don’t hesitate to bring the car to the dealer so that they can do what’s necessary based on your mileage. Remember, a properly maintained car means smooth and safe rides, so don’t overlook it!
