The information is posted as a guide, and if you have any concerns regarding your vehicle you should call a reputable garage and have the vehicle checked.

Tyre pressure: Regularly check your tyre pressure – once a week is recommended. Bad tyre pressure can affect fuel economy, handling and of course comfort. It’s something that’s very easy to do, so theres no excuse. Correct tyre pressure should be located in the owners manual, or on the inside of the drivers side door (for the standard cold tyre inflation pressure.) Remember, every tyre type is different even the weight you carry affects the air allowance.

Wheel Alignment: If wheel alignment is out of sync it can cause tyre wear and possibly creating issues with the steering of the vehicle. When the balance of a wheel is out, you’ll feel a pull of the vehicle to one side or harsh vibration when at cruising speed e.g. on a motorway.

Tyre Thread Depth: Thread depth needs to be checked regularly. Tyres need to be replaced when worn. Thread depth maintains maximum traction and grip, and potentially avoid an accident. Tyres should be changed before depth is worn to 1.6mm. This is the minimum thread depth for vehicles in Ireland. The more thread depth that you have, means your tires can disperse more water – reducing the risk of aquaplaning.

You can always ask your local tyre centre to check your tyres.

Engine Oil Levels: Engine oil should be checked often, and its pretty easy to do. You’ll be able to tell whether your engine needs oil or not. Low oil can cause problems for your engine.

To check oil: 

1. Park on level ground.
2. Ensure the engine has cooled significantly after driving, first thing in the morning is best.
3. Locate the dip-stick under the bonnet, usually its brightly coloured (e.g. yellow) and has a circular cap with a hoop that you can use to pull the dipstick out.
4. Remove the dipstick from the engine, and wipe any oil from it using kitchen towel or cloth.
5. Insert the dipstick back into the engine, all the way.
6. Remove it slowly, and look at both sides of the dipstick to see what the level of the oil is at.

*Most vehicles have different oil types so check with your manufacturer on what oil should be used in your vehicle. If you are not sure on how to do any of the above ask a qualified technician (mechanic.)

Servicing: It’s recommended that your vehicle is regularly serviced by a reputable garage. It’s recommended to check with your vehicle manufacturer as to the frequency of your service. Every manufacturer is different and vehicle type is different.

Its advised that you regularly check and replace the following if needed (some more obvious than others:) This list is not exhaustive.

• Windscreen Wipers.
• Washer Fluid.
• Front and Rear Lights.
• Interior Lighting.
• Battery and Contact Points
• Fluids (power steering, coolant etc.)
• Filters.
• Brake Pads and Disks.
• Headlight Alignment.

There are many more things that we could list, but its recommended that you have your vehicle checked by a reputable garage if you’re planning a long journey or have any concerns.

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