Tuesday 31 March 2015

Spring Clean Your Car

Spring drive, couple, convertible
The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) is sharing advice with drivers to ensure their cars are well-prepared for the spring. Here are seven important tips from the IAM’s chief examiner, Peter Rodger, to see you through the season.

  1. Now is a good time to give your car a complete spring clean inside and out. Give the outside of your car specific attention as patches of grime and dirt collected over the winter can cause corrosion. Wash your car thoroughly and take it to a car wash that specialises in under-side cleaning.
  2. Check your car lights and windscreen wiper blades are working properly and make sure the tyres are not damaged or worn – if any of these need replacing do it before you start your journey. Keeping a spare pack of car bulbs in your boot is also a good idea.
  3. Top up your brake fluid as you may have used more of it during the winter months. The same applies to your washer screen fluid and coolant levels. If you’re unsure about topping these up consult your handbook or take it to a mechanic.
  4. If you’re allergic to pollen, the onset of hay fever can affect your driving during the spring. Use a pollen filter or switch the air-conditioning on to help purify the air.
  5. Tree sap can be hard to remove once it hardens so don’t forget to give your car a regular wash-over using some hot water and a clean sponge – this should help the sap to dissolve.
  6. If you find the sap has hardened and difficult to remove use a colour restorer and an electric polisher. Use specialist cleaning pads to buff the car paint into the metal, but don’t ever use household cleaning pads as these will ruin the car’s paintwork.
  7. Always keep a pair of sunglasses with you; these will come in handy when dealing with glare from early morning and evening low sun.
Peter said: “Many annoying problems can be prevented by simple checks and regular maintenance. Keeping your windows and mirrors clear of dirt and blemishes can prevent accidents and save lives.”


The Good Garage Scheme would like to thank the IAM for this week's helpful blog and advises motorists to visit their local member garage for a Spring Check.

http://www.goodgaragescheme.com/spring_check











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