PREPARING YOUR CAR FOR SUMMER - BEAT THE SUMMERTIME BLUES WITH HOT TIPS FOR HOLIDAY DRIVING

In the last minute rush to get away, basic car care may often be overlooked. However, a little preparation can go a long way.

So, if you'd rather be soaking up the sunshine than sitting on the hard shoulder, follow these Hot Tips for Driving to help ensure a smooth ride.

OIL: Check your engine oil properly - a low oil level may cause overheating, excessive engine wear or even engine seizure.



TYRES: Check your tyre pressures against those in the handbook and examine them for cuts and wear. A car laden with a family plus all its luggage may need higher pressures than normal and remember to check the spare!



COOLANT: Check your engine coolant. Consult your owners handbook if your cooling system has a reservoir or for those with a radiator filter cap, fill to within about 2cm of the filler neck.



WINDSCREEN: Top up your windscreen washer with water and detergent. In a recent car care test, 64% of those tested said that they would not have checked the windscreen washer fluid level before setting off on a long journey. Always keep a bottle of water in the car just in case!



BATTERY: For older cars, ensure your battery is topped up with distilled water [new car batteries are sealed for life so don't need toping up].



KIDS: Keep children amused in the car with books, comics or games to minimise distractions whilst you're driving.



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