Do you need to service your car? How often should you change the oil? Do you know how to check your tyres?
It might seem okay to skip car service, but it’s a mistake. AA mechanic Grant Waters warns that most major car problems happen because people don’t get their cars serviced regularly.
Some people ignore service for up to five years, leading to almost no oil left in the engine. This can cause serious damage and expensive repairs. A service checks vital parts like brake fluids, engine oil, filters, belts, brakes, and tyres.
To check your coolant, look at the radiator cooling tank. There are marks for minimum and maximum levels. Keep it between these. The coolant stops the engine from overheating, but it can leak or get blocked. Replace the coolant every two years or after 60,000 kilometres.
For oil checks, turn off the car for 10–15 minutes for the oil to settle. Use the dipstick to check the level between the minimum and maximum marks. If it’s low, add the right oil carefully. You should change the oil and filter completely every 10,000 kilometres or at least once a year, as oil loses its effectiveness over time.
Car batteries last around four to six years. Check their color: green means good, black is okay, and white needs replacing. Driving longer trips can help extend battery life.
Tyre pressure is important; find the correct pressure on the inside of your door. Always check your spare tyre, too. Using proper tyres for your vehicle type can help save fuel.
Driving habits matter too. Maintain safe distances, and accelerate gently to save fuel.
If you’re not using your car for a while, consider putting your vehicle registration on hold for three to 12 months. Just remember to renew it before the year ends to avoid extra compliance checks.
