Many people across the UK rely on their vehicles for work, transporting children and completing basic tasks like the weekly shop. It can really disrupt your life when something happens to your car, so learning how to identify some of the more common problems can help to prevent a more serious issue.
Here are some things you should pay attention to so you can avoid larger, more costly repairs.
Read your vehicle manual
Whilst your vehicle manual might not be your idea of a bedtime story, giving it a thorough read means you will be able to get to know your vehicle. This is helpful if you have a new car.
Your manual will be able to tell you what the different lights mean, where features are located, as well as the optimum tyre pressure and fuel for your car.
Check your tyres
A good habit to have is to regularly check your tyres. By giving them a once-over monthly, you will be able to spot any issues, such as punctures or your tread wearing away. You should also make it a checklist item to check the pressure before you complete any long-distance driving.
The minimum legal depth for your tyres is 1.6mm, but it is always recommended that you replace your tyres before you get to the legal minimum to stay safe. Find a reputable company by asking friends and family for recommendations for places to get new car tyres in Shrewsbury, for example.
Pay attention to warning lights on the dashboard
Warning lights are just that – warnings! They are a good indicator that something on your car is not working as it should be. Use your vehicle manual to identify the perpetrator. Once you have done this, you will have a good idea whether it is something you can repair yourself or if you will need professional advice.
Be aware of your steering
If you are a regular driver, you will notice if something about your steering column isn’t quite right. There are several reasons why your steering wheel would be shaking such as a damaged suspension or wheel bearings.
If the shaking gets worse as you accelerate then it could be an issue with the wheel balance. It is recommended that you seek professional help as soon as you notice this issue.
Listen to unusual noises
Cars typically make the same noise whenever you drive them, so it can be obvious when they start making a different noise. It can be hard to identify where the noise is coming from so make a note of when you hear it and what your car is doing.
For example, a grinding noise whenever you change gears could mean you need to replace the clutch or you do not have enough transmission fluid.
