Don’t Break Down!
Shortly after taking delivery of a new- to-me car, I absentmindedly started fi lling the fuel tank with petrol, until I suddenly remembered it took diesel! Fortunately, I immediately stopped refuelling and phoned for breakdown services who fl ushed the tank clean, thus avoiding serious engine damage and expensive repair bills.
Fuel-related problems are one of the major causes of car breakdowns, with running out of fuel ranked in Green Flag’s top fi ve. But many breakdowns can be avoided with a little forethought. For example, make a commitment to never let your car run on less than a quarter full, and you should never face the embarrassment of an empty tank!
Most of us have had a fl at battery. Sometime this occurs due to a genuine
fault, but more often happens after leaving the lights or
radio on, or because the terminals are dirty, or the clamps are loose. Regular maintenance and servicing can eliminate problems like this, but as we are all human and make mistakes
only short journeys in your car, give it a good run every week or two to give the battery chance to recharge itself.
will prevent big headaches should you ever lock yourself out of your car, or worse still lose your keys. Most modern cars now have a ‘transponder’ key which combines
from time to time, keep a set of jump leads in a conventional mechanical key with an the car ‘just in case’! Also, if you tend to make encrypted electronic chip to prevent theft. Replacement is often available only through an authorised dealer and could take several days. Much better to keep a spare!
Flat or damaged tyres are another common problem. Check your handbook to keep tyres at the correct pressure and be careful to avoid hitting the kerb, as the impact can damage tyre sidewalls and rims. A good practice is to check tyre pressure and tread every time you fi ll up, watching out for nails or glass in the tyres and paying special attention to the tread depth. If it is uneven, the tyres may be misaligned.
Does your vehicle have a second set of keys? Keeping a spare bunch in a safe place
Finally, there are a number of mechanical and electrical faults that might cause a breakdown, such as the starter motor or spark plugs. At the fi rst signs of any problems (like diffi culty starting the engine for example), get your car checked over by a garage to avoid further problems.
Owning a vehicle is an essential part of life for the majority of us these days. Let’s keep them breakdown-free by carrying out good, regular maintenance, and by using a bit of common sense!
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