Are Your Tyres Ready for Spring?
As breakdowns on UK roads increase year on year, Highways England has recommended conducting fundamental safety checks on your vehicle before embarking on extended journeys.
Performing these straightforward checks not only ensures the safety of your vehicle but can also save you money by addressing issues before they escalate. Read on to discover essential checks to regularly perform on your vehicle.
Essential Tyre TLC for Spring
The paramount aspect of vehicle safety revolves around your tyres, which serve as the crucial connection between your vehicle and the road. Two critical aspects to inspect are tread depth and pressure. Consult your vehicle maintenance guide, the inside front door, or the fuel cap for the manufacturer’s recommended tyre pressure. These pressures pertain to an unladen vehicle; if you plan to carry a heavy load, check the recommended loaded pressures. Confirm your tyre pressure aligns with the manufacturer’s specifications by removing the valve dust cap, attaching the gauge to the valve, and observing the pressure reading. If the reading deviates from the manufacturer’s recommendations, promptly inflate or deflate the tyre.
Maintaining adequate tread depth is equally vital. The UK legal limit is 1.6 mm, but optimal tyre performance is compromised below 3mm. Conduct the 20p test by placing a 20p coin in the main grooves of the tyre; if the outer part of the coin is visible, replace your tyres promptly.
Navigating Battery Health for Spring
A thorough battery check is another crucial safety measure. Your vehicle relies on the battery for effective and safe operation. Most modern car batteries have a performance indicator, making it apparent when replacement is necessary. Ensure terminal connections are clean to prevent dirt and grease accumulation. If you have concerns about your battery, consider booking a free vehicle health check, where professionals can assess its performance.
Maintaining Fluid Levels for Smooth Drives
Maintaining proper coolant or antifreeze levels is essential for optimal vehicle functioning. Check if the liquid reaches the full line and top up as needed with a mixture of water and coolant. Never add coolant to a hot engine to avoid burns or damage. Regularly check and top up your screen wash fluid as required.
Clear Vision, Bright Roads: Blades and Bulbs
Wiper blades, often overlooked, play a crucial role in screen visibility, especially in wet conditions. Regularly inspect them for any signs of damage.
Ensuring proper functioning of your car’s light bulbs is imperative for vehicle safety. Both internal and external lights should be operational. Internal lights signal potential issues, while external lights alert other drivers to your presence. Malfunctioning lights are a common cause of MOT failure. Take responsibility for keeping your lights clean and correctly adjusted to avoid potential legal issues.
Stay Informed with etyres
Keep yourself informed about the latest tyre trends, technologies, and promotions by regularly checking the etyres website. Take advantage of the expert advice and comprehensive tyre services available to ensure your vehicle is always ready for the road.
As spring approaches, taking the time to assess and prepare your tyres is a smart investment in your safety and driving experience. With the expert guidance and services offered by etyres, you can confidently navigate the roads with tyres that are ready to face the challenges of the season.
Don’t compromise on safety – visit etyres today to make sure your tyres are spring-ready.
