c ar m a I n T enance & r epa I rs

The average age of a car at scrappage is around 14 years, while the average age of vehicles on the road is closer to eight years. But, there are some simple steps you can take to maintain value and give your car the best chance of reaching its golden years.

STiCk TO The ServiCe SChedule

Regular servicing is vital to keep your car in tip-top condition and prolong its life.

Service intervals are

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042 9331515/086 2559201 based on time or miles driven – once a year or every 10,000 miles, for example.

Check the handbook to find out when your car is due a service and what work is required.

Many modern cars have warning lights on the dashboard to alert you when maintenance is needed, too.

You should budget for a ‘minor’ service once a year and a ‘major’ service every two or three years.

A minor service includes changing the oil and oil filter, and replac- ing other fluids if necessary. Depending on the car and mileage, a major service may also cover replacement of the air filter, spark plugs and timingbelt.

The number of tasks included in even a minor service is numerous, but all should include checks for oil and fluid leaks, tyre pressures and condition, excessive exhaust emissions, brake wear, and the correct operation of the steering, gearbox, clutch, suspension, lights, wipers and horn.

It sounds basic but keeping on top of your car’s servicing is the best thing you can do to get the most out of your car and to maintain reliability. The investment in an annual service will save you pounds on repair bills and potentially avoid a stressful breakdown.

hAve YOur TYreS CheCked

Tyres are arguably your car’s most important safety feature and it’s no exaggeration to say that checking them