BRITISH drivers are being urged to thoroughly check their motor for signs of post-winter damage over the Easter break.
The warning comes as car insurance giants Aviva reveal that winter weather – such as wind, snow, sleet, rain and ice – contributed to thousands of claims over the last few years, with many motorists failing to carry out essential maintenance checks.
GettyIt’s time to ditch those winter blues with some spring cleaning[/caption]
GettyA car expert has revealed their spring checklist[/caption]
To help drivers as they prepare to travel over the Easter holidays, car expert Fan Lamoli has put together a simple checklist – including a simple brake test that could be crucial for your safety.
Headlights
Although days might be longer and brighter, it’s good practice to check that all your motor’s lights – such as headlights, brakes, fog, rear and indicator lights – are clean and in working order.
Not only are faulty or dirty lights dangerous, they’re also illegal and could lead to a hefty fine.
If you’re unsure or not able to change them yourself, head to a mechanic or your local garage as soon as possible.
Tyre pressure and depth
Winter can heavily impact the state of your motor’s tyres – particularly on roads littered with potholes – so it’s worth taking the time to physically inspect your tyres for damage.
The expert mechanic suggests a tyre’s tread depth should be between 3-4mm – around the thickness of a pound coin – to improve steering and braking on less favourable road conditions.
However, it’s equally important not to over-inflate tyres to prevent slipping, and if you’ve put on snow tyres, remember to take these off in time for spring!
Windscreen wipers
Wiper blades can often be worn down and damaged by tough weather conditions, which is why the expert urges drivers to check they are in good working order.
Not only is it your legal responsibility to make sure you can properly see out of your windscreen, poor wiper maintenance could lead to you having a driving incident.
Windscreen
While you’re checking your wipers, check for any damage or cracks to your windscreen, too.
Small stones can easily fly up onto your windscreen and cause marks, which can be a distraction when driving and could impair your vision.
If you find any chips, be sure to get these repaired as soon as possible – they could lead to further damage if they’re left.
The impact of winter weather on your motor
Hazel Johnson, Director of Home and Motor claims at Aviva, believes many drivers are unaware of how winter weather can impact their vehicle.
She said: “Maintaining your vehicle is crucial – not just for your own safety – but for those around you.
“As a driver, it is your legal responsibility to make sure your car is in roadworthy condition, which means carrying out essential repairs and maintenance.
“Failing to do so, means that you risk being unable to make a claim, and you could be putting yourself and others at risk should the worst unfortunately happen.
“Getting into the habit of checking things like oil and coolant levels is good practice – particularly as you may be travelling for longer due to road closures or traffic jams, or travelling further afield.”
Oil and coolant
Drivers should check their motor’s oil and coolant, especially ahead of long journeys.
However, take extra caution, as it can be an expensive problem if fluids are accidentally mixed and could cause damage to your engine.
Aviva research shows that 22% of people who have botched a DIY maintenance job on their car have needed professional help with fixing mishaps around topping up and checking fluids, so if you’re ever unsure, speak to your mechanic.
Brakes
It’s crucial to check that your brakes are in working order in the Spring with showers and wet weather conditions more prevalent.
If you notice any changes such as strange noises and find your brakes being unresponsive, head to your local garage or mechanic as soon as possible.
Battery
If your car or car battery is more than five years old, it is possible that the 12v battery may be past its best.
The expert says that spring weather can be unpredictable and a cold snap could impact a battery’s charging capability, which is why it’s good to get into the habit of checking it on a regular basis.
Thankfully, a battery check can take as little as 30 seconds thanks to a handy £10 gadget.
If you own an electric vehicle, cold weather may also reduce its range – so bear this in mind when planning journeys and charge routines.
Meanwhile, spring cleaners have been urged to make use of an easy 55p hack to remove tough engine oil stains from their driveways.
And elsewhere, a car expert has picked out five timeless motors that are major head-turners and won’t break the bank to buy at under £10,000.
GettyDrivers should check their motor’s oil and coolant, especially ahead of long journeys.[/caption]
GettyWiper blades can often be worn down and damaged by tough weather conditions.[/caption]“}]]