CHILD’S PLAY

Dealers might not like this but the truth is car servicing has become a lot easier than it was in the old days. Back then it was points, tappets, plugs, timing, oil change, oil filter change, lube chassis, carburettor adjustment, idling setting and a whole lot more.

With modern cars, it’s much easier: basically, it’s an oil change, oil filter and air filter change and lubrication of hinges. Then it’s just a few quick and simple checks: CV joint gaiters, exhaust rubber hangers, water and brake-fluid level, brake pad thickness, lights, tyres/pressures and that’s it.

It is so simple that I asked my 11-year-old grandson to do it with me. I also showed him how to “read” plugs for fun, although they last for at least 40 000 km these days. I helped him with the tight nuts but he did all the rest. At the end, his face lit up, “Grandad, this is more fun than computer games!” Which coming from him is praise indeed.

Computer checks? Nah, they take ages. Once I had one done and all it did was tell me what I already knew: there was nothing wrong. All you need is a ramp, a few spanners and an oil catchment dish. Filters you can buy from independent parts suppliers. Garages are only too happy to take your used oil.

And if anyone doubts the effectiveness of DIY servicing, my VW Jetta has now done 195 000 km and uses virtually no oil (I use synthetic), and my previous self-serviced Mercedes-benz C-class did 275 000 km before I sold it, using no oil between services.

For big jobs like a clutch replacement, I use small independent garages and supply the parts. DOUG LAURIE Boskruin