With autumn fast approaching and summer starting to feel like a distant memory, it’s the perfect time to give your car a little TLC with our 5 autumn vehicle health checks. As a new season starts and now only one more away from the return of ice and snow, here is everything you need to know.
#1 Check Your Lights…
As the darker nights seem to draw in, it is important to check all of the lights on your car. This includes any lights internally or externally in your vehicles such as:
- Brake lights
- Reverse lights
- Indicator lights
- Headlights – this also includes your different variations such as fog lights, and low and high beam lights
- Interior dash lights
- Dome or courtesy light
One of the great things about your lights is that if they need replacing, it is more than not a replacement bulb, which is a quick, easy and affordable repair.
#2 When Did You Last Check Your Tyres?
For those that have more modern and up to date cars, you may notice you have a flat tyre or low tyre pressure when your car notifies you. But those who have to do it the traditional way may have more difficulty keeping on top of it.
In order to keep you safe this autumn, ensure you regularly check your vehicle’s tyres. You want to ensure they are in good condition, have the minimum tyre tread and inflated to the correct amount for your make and model.
The easiest way to check tyre pressure is to buy your own portable pump or head to your nearest petrol station, where they often supply water and air.
#3 Fluid Levels…
Another important autumn vehicle check to complete is checking your fluid levels such as engine oil, brake fluid, radiator coolant and windscreen washer fluid. Check that all of your fluids are topped up and in good condition.
Each fluid has a specific way to check it, so refer to your vehicle’s handbook for more information. You may want to prepare yourself for colder weather by investing in some de-icer for those days you don’t have time to scrape and you’re running late!
#4 Check Your Battery…
If your battery is struggling now, the higher your chances of breaking down during winter. They tend to last for around 5 years, but can often be one of the biggest causes of breakdowns in the UK.
Take your car to an expert and get them to double check your vehicle’s battery for any problems ahead of the cold months.
#5 Check Your Wipers & Windows…
With British weather, you can never predict whether it will be sunny, stormy or just cloudy. One of the biggest autumn vehicle checks to carry out is making sure your windows are clean. Ensure there are no cracks and be prepared to invest in new window wipers if you haven’t replaced those in a while.
If your wipers are getting stuck or scraping across the windows, that is a clear sign that you need to get these replaced.
What If I Don’t Do My Autumn Vehicle Health Checks?
There are so many vehicle checks that are advisable to carry out during this season, to help prevent any breakdowns this month, be sure to head to your local garage for a full vehicle review.
In the event that your car does break down, you have the best team on hand! We are available 24 hours, 7 days a week across the whole of the UK. Simply give us a call on 0870 600 3444 and one of our team would be happy to help.
