A Mums’ Guide to Car Maintenance
*This is a collaborative post
Mum, or taxi driver? Sometimes it can be difficult to differentiate between the two. Often when we become mothers, we also gain the role of chauffeur. ‘Mum, can you take me to my friend’s house after school?’ to ‘Mum, please can you pick me up from the bus station?’
Sound familiar?
From the school run to after-school activities, our kids rely on us to drop them off and pick them up, which results in us often spending a lot of time in our cars. For this reason, is it important to know how to prevent a breakdown with some simple maintenance.
Mums, here is your guide to car maintenance:
Engine coolant
Ensure your coolant level is between the minimum and maximum by regularly checking it. Before doing so, make sure that you park your car on a level surface, then loosen the radiator cap and check the level. If needed, add coolant. Top tip for all you mums out there: Allow your vehicle time to cool down before opening the tank – you don’t want to burn yourselves!
Tyre maintenance
When it comes to tyres, there are a couple things to keep in mind.
Tyre pressure
Every couple of weeks, keep an eye on your tyre pressure by testing it with a manometer from RS Components – compact, battery operated and boasting an easy-to-read clear digital screen, this digital pressure meter provides highly accurate readings, so keep it to hand!
Cuts and wear
Check the condition of your tyres regularly, looking for cuts or any wear. Making sure your tread is within the legal limits is a necessity, too.
Engine oil
Keep on top of your engine oil by using your dipstick to check your oil levels every couple of weeks. Make sure it’s at the top of your list of things to do before heading off with the family on a long car journey.
Lights
Brake lights, fog lights, reversing lights and indicators are all essential when you’re driving, so keep them in mind when you’re ticking off your car maintenance list and ensuring that everything is working correctly. Don’t forget to replace any blown bulbs!
By following the above tips, you will be helping to minimise any unwanted vehicle problems.
Plus, you’ll have very happy kids that will be able to continue with their demands!
