Weekend Herald

You shouldn't do to your car

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Failing to give your car a bit of TLC could leave you broken down on the side of the road wondering what went wrong. The more you put into your car, the more you will get out of it. It will also perform better, and it’ll be more likely to stand the test of time. To help your vehicle run smoothly and avoid hitting any speed bumps along the way, we’ve picked five vital things you shouldn’t do to your car. Your car, especially if it’s brand new, will have a number of ways to alert you when it needs some attention. If a warning light appears, don’t drive around for weeks before you take it to a workshop, as you could cause more damage. Likewise, if you hear a weird noise when you start the engine, or something doesn’t feel right, get your car checked as soon as possible. Getting your car serviced by a profession­al is arguably the most important thing you can do for it. If you miss a date, there are consequenc­es.

A basic service checks all the essentials — oil, antifreeze, brake fluid, the battery, plus many other things. Most mechanics and dealers will offer a more comprehens­ive service and will be able to advise motorists on the best service for their vehicle based on the distance travelled.

Regular servicing will keep your car running for longer and when you come to sell it, a good service history will make the process much easier. Giving your car a good clean and polish can go a long way.

It doesn’t have to be done religiousl­y, but if your car is looking a little shabby then it’s probably a good idea to get out the sponge.

Don’t forget about the inside of your car, either.

Vacuum the carpet and get rid of any rubbish. Your car will look better and it’ll enhance your driving experience. Though there might be times when it seems like all your money is being spent on your car, there are occasions it’s worth splashing out. If your vehicle needs new oil, spend a little more on something good quality. If it needs repairs, do your research before taking it to a mechanic. The cheapest isn’t always the best choice and the recognised and reputable workshops can be more reliable, and will often give you better value for money. The same goes for tyres. The more you put in to your car, the more you will get out of it. There are many manufactur­ers to choose from but stick with the traditiona­l, reputable brands that offer a range of safe tyres for all budgets. Neglecting your car is never a good idea and leaving it on the driveway to gather dust will only do it harm. If the brake calipers or wheel cylinders aren’t being used frequently, they can seize. Lack of use can also affect a car’s rubber and plastic components — things such as hoses, tyres and dashboards — causing them to become dry and brittle. So, hit the open road from time to time.

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