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Essential DIY Vehicle Checks Before Your Next Big Drive

While DIY checks can’t replace a professional inspection and service, there are a few simple checks that even drivers with minimal hands-on experience can perform to ensure a safe and smooth journey. This article outlines some essential, easy-to-follow checks that will keep your vehicle road-ready.

1. Tyre Inspection

Check Tyre Pressure: Incorrect tyre pressure can lead to poor fuel efficiency and handling. Use a tyre pressure gauge to ensure your tyres are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended level. Gauges are inexpensive and can be found at just about any auto parts store, or fuel station compressed air system.

Checking tyre pressure with an analogue gauge.

Inspect Tread Depth: Worn tyres are dangerous, especially in wet conditions. Check your tyre tread depth with a visual inspection and a gauge to ensure it is above the legal minimum. If your tread depth is less than 1.5mm anywhere across the tyre, it is no longer roadworthy.

2. Fluid Levels

Engine Oil: Check your engine oil level using the dipstick. If it's low, top it up to the marked level with the correct type of oil.

Coolant: Ensure your coolant level is between the 'min' and 'max' marks on the coolant reservoir. Never open the radiator cap when the engine is hot.

Brake Fluid and Windshield Washer Fluid: Also, check these levels and top them up if necessary.

3. Lights and Indicators

Functionality Check: Walk around your vehicle and check that all lights and indicators are working. Replace any burnt-out bulbs.

You might need the help of a family member or friend to help check reverse lights and brake lights.

4. Windshield Wipers and Washers

Inspect Wiper Blades: Worn or damaged wiper blades won't clear your windshield effectively. Replace them if they are streaking or missing spots. Wipers that are dry, stiff or cracked will not do an effective job removal water from your windscreen.

Cleaning windscreen wiper with microfibre cloth.

Washer Fluid: Ensure your washer fluid is topped up for a clear view on your journey. Refilling the reservoir with water is fine, but adding a windscreen washer additive will help shift bugs and road grime from your window.

5. Battery Check

Visual Inspection: Check for any signs of corrosion on the battery terminals. If you notice any, clean them with a brush and some baking soda.

Battery Age: Remember, car batteries typically last 3-5 years. If yours is older, consider getting it tested or replaced. Most batteries will have a date sticker on them. If you can’t find one, a battery health check is quick and easy, just bring your vehicle into your nearest Donnellans.

Pre Trip Inspections

Performing these simple checks can reveal potential issues before you’ve even left your driveway.

Always remember, if you come across any issues that you're not comfortable handling, it's best to seek assistance from a professional workshop, such as Donnellans.

If you’d rather leave it to the experts, make sure that your vehicle is in the best shape possible with a pre-trip inspection and service from Donnellans, the Tyremen. We have 4 locations that are able to help out with advice, information and top-tier products.