Category: Servicing and Maintenance

Vehicle maintenance can be a confusing affair; when do you need to check your tyres, how often should you be topping up your engine fluids? These are all valid questions that every motorist should bear in mind.

That said, there are some easy things you can do to ensure you’re keeping on top of these essential checks that will ultimately mean your vehicle remains in the best possible condition and performs to the full each time you take to the open road.

1. Create a vehicle maintenance checklist

Knowing what needs to be regularly checked on your vehicle to ensure it is properly maintained is half the battle for owners, so it pays to set up a maintenance checklist that can act as a reminder of the different components that you should be keeping an eye on.

From daily checks that should be carried out every journey, to weekly, monthly and even annual inspections, as an owner, you should be aware of when each part of your vehicle needs to be inspected for signs that it needs to be replaced.

2. Get into the habit of daily inspections

One thing to remember is that some parts of your car will need to be inspected every time you take to the roads. Components like tyres and lights fall into this group. By carrying out these daily checks, you significantly reduce the likelihood of suffering a breakdown.

Before every journey, take the time to check over your electrical systems to ensure the lights are illuminating properly all around the vehicle, while each tyre should be inspected for any unexpected wear and tear that could lead to a failure. Drivers should also check that the pressure of their tyres is correct in order to ensure maximum efficiency.

3. Arrange for a regular service

Finally, there really is no replacement for having your vehicle professionally serviced at least every year. A professional mechanic will be able to identify any problems with your vehicle and will let you know if parts need replacing to ensure it stays in good working order.

They can also let you know if parts are beginning to show signs of wear and tear and will need replacing in the near future, thereby allowing you to plan ahead and not be struck by any unexpected repair bills.

MyService.Expert is a fantastic product that helps to ensure you’re keeping your vehicles in the best condition possible at all times.

Our nationwide network of partners means you can always find a garage near you, while our commitment to value means those who sign up can enjoy savings of up to 25 per cent on all parts and labour.

Vehicle maintenance is absolutely essential and it’s something that every car owner should be aware of.

We’ve covered many aspects of how to keep tabs on the important parts of your vehicle that need to be regularly maintained in recent months, but now we’re looking at precisely why it is imperative to keep your car in the best possible condition.

What are the dangers of not carrying out checks?

One of the biggest issues motorists will face when they fail to properly maintain their vehicle is an increased likelihood of suffering a breakdown. Reliability can be seriously impacted when parts are allowed to wear without regular supervision.

There’s also the issue of vehicle safety, which every driver should have at the top of their list of priorities. Issues like worn brakes, a tyre blowout due to excessive wear and tear, or a broken drive belt resulting in a sudden loss of power can all be extremely dangerous situations to deal with.

Finally, cost is something that all drivers should be aware of. Expensive repairs can often be avoided when vehicle maintenance is kept up to date. By carrying out regular maintenance, you greatly reduce the risk of essential component failure and can keep your repair costs to a minimum.

At MyService.Expert, our nationwide network of garages offer a simple and accessible solution to meeting your vehicle maintenance needs.

What’s more, when you sign up to our product, we guarantee great savings, with discounts of up to 25 per cent on all parts and labour when you get your vehicle serviced with us.

Keeping your engine cool is a critical factor in ensuring your vehicle runs efficiently and does not face the risk of overheating and causing potential damage to vital components that can be extremely costly to repair.

You will need to consider some other running costs. Find these out in our ‘Guide to running car costs’‘.

As a result, knowing when to add additional coolant to your engine is a must for all motorists. There are some tell-tale signs that your vehicle may be running low on coolant, so take the time to read our handy top tips below.

What is coolant in a car?

Coolant is a liquid substance used to keep the water in your engine at an optimal temperature. If the water gets too hot or reaches a freezing point, it could cause permanent damage to a car engine, so a coolant is designed to prevent this.

A cooling system circulates the coolant liquid through your car’s engine. It absorbs heat from the engine while constantly monitoring its temperature to keep it at safe levels.

Read our ultimate fleet guide to learn more about your fleet vehicles.

What is antifreeze?

You may also hear antifreeze mentioned in discussions of car coolants. Virtually all coolants commercially available today comprise antifreeze mixed with water at around a 50:50 ratio, which yields a coolant liquid capable of protecting your vehicle from excessive temperatures.

When should I top up my coolant?

So, how do you know whether you need to top up your coolant levels?

Most new cars have automatic systems to detect excessive heat caused by a lack of engine cooling. Still, drivers must monitor their engines closely for older models and ensure regular fleet maintenance to top up any engine fluids.

View our Ultimate Fleet Maintenance Guide for further information.

Coolant is available at local petrol stations, garages, and supermarkets. Use our pump locator to find your nearest fuel station.

A Red coolant light comes on when the car starts

A dashboard warning light will warn the driver that water/coolant levels are getting low. A rise in the temperature gauge is also a first sign that there might be a problem. Billowing steam, a hot bonnet, and a lack of control over the interior heating are also signs of temperature issues with the engine.

For newer vehicles

Most new vehicles have an automatic engine cut-off designed to prevent damage to key engine parts when temperatures spike. However, if your car is not fitted with this system, the driver is responsible for effectively topping up coolant levels.

When you fail to recognise the warning signs that your car has inadequate cooling, you risk damaging some of the most essential parts of your vehicle’s engine.

Symptoms of engine damage caused by heat

Poor cooling can result in severe damage to the water pump, head gasket, cylinder and piston timing, cylinder head, warped or bent connector rods, or even crank failure due to the high temperatures created by a car engine running.

Failure to properly maintain your vehicle can even result in the car becoming a write-off, so vigilance is key when topping up coolant.

You can find more information in our guide to vehicle checks and defect reporting.

 

What coolant for my car?

Choosing the correct coolant for your car ensures optimal engine performance and prevents overheating. Coolant, or antifreeze, helps maintain a safe operating temperature and prevents damage caused by extreme heat or cold.

Check Your Owner’s Manual

The best place to start is your vehicle’s owner’s manual. It will specify the type of coolant recommended for your car, including the mixture ratio (usually a 50/50 blend of coolant and water). Following these recommendations ensures compatibility with your car’s engine and cooling system.

Types of coolant for your car

• Inorganic Acid Technology (IAT): This coolant, typically green, is commonly used in older vehicles. It provides essential protection but needs to be replaced every 2-3 years.
• Organic Acid Technology (OAT): Often orange or pink, OAT coolants are used in newer cars and offer extended protection, lasting up to 5 years or 150,000 miles.
• Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT): A blend of IAT and OAT, HOAT coolants come in various colours, such as yellow, orange, or turquoise. They provide long-term protection and are commonly found in vehicles from European and American manufacturers.

What colour coolant for my car?

While the colour of the coolant doesn’t affect its performance, it helps identify the type of coolant in your system. Ensure you use the same kind, or consult your manual if unsure. Mixing different types can reduce the effectiveness of your vehicle’s cooling system.

Can I use any coolant in my car?

Always use coolant compatible with your vehicle’s materials, including gaskets and seals. Using the wrong type can cause corrosion or clogging in your engine.

 

How long does a coolant last in a car?

The lifespan of a car’s coolant typically ranges from 2 to 5 years, depending on the type and the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Inorganic Acid Technology (IAT) coolants generally need to be replaced every 2-3 years, while Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolants can last up to 5 years or 150,000 miles. Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) coolants also have a long lifespan, often requiring replacement every 5 years.

However, it’s essential to regularly check coolant levels and conditions, as factors like extreme driving conditions or system leaks may shorten its effectiveness. Always follow your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific maintenance intervals.

How much coolant does my car take?

The amount of coolant your car requires can vary depending on its make and model, but most cars typically need between 1 and 2 gallons (3.8 to 7.6 litres).

To find the exact amount, check your vehicle’s owner’s manual, which will provide the specific capacity for your car’s cooling system.

Remember that the amount may also depend on whether you’re simply topping off the coolant or performing a full system flush and refill.

 

How to drain coolant from a car?

Draining the coolant from your car is straightforward but requires some caution. Here’s a general guide:

• Prepare the Car: First, park the car on a level surface and turn off the engine. Then, let the engine cool completely to avoid burns or injury.

• Locate the Radiator Drain Plug: Open the hood and locate the radiator drain plug, usually found at the bottom of the radiator. You may need to remove a splash shield to access it.

• Position a Drain Pan: Place a large container or drain pan beneath the radiator drain plug to catch the old coolant.

• Open the drain plug: Carefully loosen the drain plug using a wrench and allow the coolant to flow out. Be sure to dispose of the coolant properly, as it is toxic to animals and the environment.

• Flush the System: If you’re replacing the coolant, flush the cooling system with water to remove any remaining old coolant or debris. Follow your vehicle’s manual for flushing instructions.

• Close the Drain Plug: Once the coolant is fully drained, securely close the drain plug to prevent leaks.

• Refill with New Coolant: After draining and flushing, refill the radiator with the recommended coolant, checking your owner’s manual for the correct type and quantity.

How to handle and dispose of car coolant

Remember to handle coolant carefully and dispose of it according to local regulations. Consult a professional mechanic if you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the process.

Where does coolant go in a car?

The process of topping up your engine’s coolant is straightforward, and the steps are as follows:

1. Ensure the engine is cold, the handbrake is applied, and the vehicle is in first gear.
2. Raise the front of the vehicle on jacks and ensure the back wheels are chocked (locked in place and restricted) to prevent movement.
3. Place a container below the engine’s radiator, undo the drain valve, and remove the filler cap.
4. Flush the system as often as necessary to ensure it is empty.
5. Locate and remove the reserve coolant tank from the vehicle. Drain any remaining fluid, then replace the tank securely and close the drain valve.
6. Refill the system to the base of the filler neck with the correct coolant for your vehicle (specifications can often be found in your vehicle handbook).
7. Finally, bleed the system of all air by briefly running the engine, turning it off, and topping it up once more. Repeat this process until the coolant level remains static when the engine is turned over. Securely replace the radiator cap to complete the process.

Discover how service plans can help save fleets money.

 

How can Fuel Card Services help?

All drivers must conduct regular maintenance checks on their vehicles to keep everything running smoothly, which could help avoid costly repairs in the future.

Given the sheer number of miles these vehicles cover, these issues must be resolved quickly for drivers using company cars and operators of commercial fleets.

Fuel Card Services offers MyService.Expert is a vehicle maintenance service that provides subscribers access to a network of garages across the UK, making fleet maintenance easy. The service grants access to pre-negotiated rates at thousands of UK garages, enabling businesses to make considerable savings on vehicle maintenance—with discounts of up to 25 per cent on all parts and labour.

Your vehicle’s brakes are arguably the most important component of your car. They ensure you can slow down efficiently and maintain full control of the vehicle at all times.

As a result, it pays to always be aware of the early signs of brake failure, while regular maintenance is key to your brakes performing as they should.

What are the signs to look out for?

Tell-tale signs that your brake pads may be in need of replacement include a metallic or squealing/screeching sound when braking, as well as less responsiveness to the brake pedal.

Generally, brake pads will last between 30,000-35,000 miles. However, this figure will depend on the amount and style of driving, as persistent heavy braking will wear them out faster. As such, it’s important to have their condition assessed annually.

Meanwhile, vibrations under braking or a pulsing of the brake pedal can also be a sign that your vehicle’s brakes have become warped – meaning the surface of the brake pad is not contacting the brake drum evenly.

This issue can arise when the brakes overheat, so avoid constant heavy braking when possible and always allow time for your brakes to cool in order to prolong their life.

At MyService.Expert, our nationwide network of garages ensures all motorists can have their vehicles regularly serviced by a qualified professional at a garage near them.

What’s more, with discounts of up to 25 per cent on all parts and labour, doing so gives great peace of mind and won’t break the bank.

Your car is a finely-tuned machine that needs all of its components to be in good working order to allow it to function efficiently and correctly. One element that all car users should therefore check regularly is the vehicle’s battery.

Failure to do so can lead to major headaches for drivers, so understanding how to carry out effective checks on your battery’s condition should be something every driver knows how to do.

How do you check the health of your battery?

A healthy battery should hold a charge of no less than 12.6 volts and this can easily be checked by opening the bonnet of the vehicle, disconnecting the battery and affixing a multimeter to the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals. If at any point you’re getting a negative reading, you have the multimeter attached the wrong way around.

Measure the DC voltage of the battery using the device and be sure to only do so once the car has been at rest for a significant amount of time – normally overnight. This is known as the ‘resting charge’.

Testing the battery when the vehicle has recently been driven may provide a false reading, as the car’s alternator will have recently charged it. Batteries are designed to hold their charge for a considerable length of time in order to power the starter motor when needed and to ensure electrical equipment will function correctly at all times.

When testing the voltage, ensure that no metallic items are touching the terminals of the battery, as this can cause a dangerous discharge.

The resting voltage recorded on your multimeter should be no less than 12.6 volts to show the battery is in proper condition. Bear in mind that a resting charge of less than 12.2 volts would highlight a serious problem with the battery.

Why is the battery so important?

Your vehicle’s battery powers all the electrical components of your car – everything from your headlights and indicators to your in-car heating and power steering. As a result, ensuring the battery is in proper working order and holding its charge is imperative.

According to the RAC, battery faults are the number one cause of breakdowns in the UK each year. Motorists up and down the country should therefore take note of the importance of proper battery maintenance.

Signs that your battery may need to be replaced include dim headlights or headlights that are dimmer when the vehicle is at rest, difficulty turning over the starter motor and a change in sound when the vehicle is idling.

Some of the main causes of battery failure include age (batteries should ideally be replaced every five years), corrosion of the terminals, extreme hot or cold temperatures, loose cables or wiring, improperly installed electrical components, and frequent short trips that do not provide sufficient time for the battery to charge fully.

If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s important to have your battery checked.

At MyService.Expert we offer access to a nationwide network of garages where you can get expert maintenance on every aspect of your vehicle.

What’s more, when you sign up to our service, this entitles you to discounts on all parts and labour of up to 25 per cent.