Owning a car comes with a lot of responsibilities, both to your vehicle and to other road users. Driving safely is something you should always be aware of, and part of that is ensuring that your car is running as it should.
There are checks that you can do to keep your car in running order. That way, you can be confident that you are driving safely. You will also save yourself costly maintenance work down the line. Here are some tips on how to check your tyres, oils and fluids, and fuel and washer levels.
Tyre Traction
It can be argued that the tyres on your vehicle are one of the most important components. You should be regularly checking your tyres to make sure they are as safe as possible.
Traction is essential for keeping your car on the road and preventing accidents. Check to make sure the tread pattern on your tyres is still there and that your tyres haven’t gone bald. If they are showing signs of wear and tear, replace them with Bridgestone tyres to make sure you are driving safely.
Tyre Inflation
Tyres should also have the right amount of pressure in them too. Too much and they could burst, too little and you may find yourself driving around on your hubcaps.
You can use your thumb to check your tyres’ inflation. Press your thumb into each wheel. If your thumb sinks too far then it is likely that they will need to be inflated. Similarly, if the wheels are too rigid then the pressure may be too high.
Flat tyres are dangerous not only to your car but to other road users. A blowout can cause the car to skid across the road, causing an accident. Incorrectly balanced tyres will also mean your car uses more fuel to drive, costing you more in the long run.
Engine Oil
Oil is one of the many fluids that help your car’s engine. In short, it helps to lubricate the moving parts within your engine and keep it moving smoothly. Driving around with low or no oil can cause serious and expensive engine damage.
Use a dipstick to check your oil levels so that you can adjust accordingly. You should regularly change your oil as well. Clean, fresh oil helps to prevent the buildup of any sludge or debris which can also be costly to repair.
Fuel and Washer Fluid
It may sound obvious, but you should always keep an eye on your fuel levels. Running out of fuel can leave you stranded which is a stressful position to be in. If you are driving long journeys, check and see where petrol stations are located on your route.
Driving with a dirty windshield is dangerous. Mud on the glass, for example, can mean you don’t see hazards such as objects in the road or people crossing. Always be sure you have enough washer fluid to keep your screen clean.
